Smart Firefighting
Smart Firefighting Podcast covers real-world deployments of smart technologies through conversations with technologists, innovators, companies, and forward-thinking public safety and government agencies. Learn from interviews with leaders as they share their insights and offer their expertise every week! Host Kevin Sofen is a co-founding member of the Smart First Responder Community who loves to explore change management and technology in public safety.
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Episodes
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
How can you manage risk and prevent failures?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Welcome to this 20-episode Texas Robotics Summit Mini Series! This 4 day event (March 4-7, 2024) was hosted at the Reveille Peak Ranch and by our friends at Granite Defense, and showcased the use of robotics (air/water/ground) in public safety via keynote presentations, training scenario stations, roundtable conversations, and more.
In this episode:
Importance of safety in public safety aviation
The critical role of communication and interoperability
Advancing technology through standards and risk management
Hear from Raymond Sheh, the UAS Research Lead at NIST, Jordan Odell, member of NIST-PSCR Mission Critical Communications Group, and Syed Izzat Ullah, a Doctoral Student at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
Our guests discuss the challenges and importance of integrating robotics technology into public safety. They highlight the need for safety regulations and robust autonomous drone navigation systems, plus emphasize the role of communication systems and interoperability in public safety.
They also stress the importance of managing risks and conducting root cause analysis when things go wrong, and talk about the role of standards in measuring progress and improving technology. The conversation ends with a focus on building connections and transitioning technologies to benefit first responders.
So click play now to find out what they have to share! And stay tuned for the next Mini Series episode!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
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Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
How does the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) use drones?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Welcome to this 20-episode Texas Robotics Summit Mini Series! This 4 day event (March 4-7, 2024) was hosted at the Reveille Peak Ranch and by our friends at Granite Defense, and showcased the use of robotics (air/water/ground) in public safety via keynote presentations, training scenario stations, roundtable conversations, and more.
In this episode:
FDNY's innovative use of drones for water rescues
Overcoming NYC's unique challenges with robotics
Embracing future tech for better firefighting tactics
Learn from New York City Fire Department's Captain Michael Leo and Lieutenant Fred Carlson.
Our guests discuss using drones and robots in their operations at FDNY. They explain how drones are used for shark patrol and water rescues, as well as the challenges faced by FDNY in providing life-saving services in a densely populated city like New York.
They also highlight the various robots FDNY uses, such as ground robots and sonar-equipped boats, and the value they bring to firefighting and public safety. We end by talking about future technology adoption and the importance of collaboration between companies and FDNY.
So click play now to find out what they have to share! And stay tuned for the next Mini Series episode!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
What fire department challenges can be addressed with drones and robots?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Welcome to this 20-episode Texas Robotics Summit Mini Series! This 4 day event (March 4-7, 2024) was hosted at the Reveille Peak Ranch and by our friends at Granite Defense, and showcased the use of robotics (air/water/ground) in public safety via keynote presentations, training scenario stations, roundtable conversations, and more.
In this episode:
Exploring drones in fire services at Texas Robotics Show
Challenges for fire departments with adopting tech solutions
Importance of networking and learning in the fire service community
Hear from Bobby Ortiz - the Battalion Chief for Travis County Emergency Services.
Chief Ortiz emphasizes the importance of embracing technology in the fire service and highlights the applications of drones in emergency situations. He also addresses the challenges fire departments face and encourages tech companies and entrepreneurs to develop user-friendly and collaborative solutions. Lastly, Chief Ortiz emphasizes the need for networking and continuous learning in the fire service.
So click play now to find out what he has to share! And stay tuned for the next Mini Series episode!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
How can fire departments leverage software tools that enhance situational awareness and embrace data-driven decision making?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How San Bernardino's fire department uses GIS for situational awareness and public safety
The value of Intterra in firefighting operations for better decision-making
How San Bernardino is navigating geographical diversity and community risk reduction through GIS
Find out from Erin Opliger - the Special Projects Leader for the San Bernardino County Fire Department.
Erin discusses using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in San Bernardino's operations, including situational awareness, performance tracking, and public engagement. She highlights the collaboration with other entities and utilizing software tools like Intterra for data visualization and analysis, emphasizing how software tools improve fire department efficiency and effectiveness.
She also discusses the challenges San Bernardino faces, such as the diverse geographical area and the need for community risk reduction. In sum, this conversation highlights the need for culture change and the adoption of technology in the fire service.
So click play now to find out what she has to share!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Let's talk TAK (Tactical Assault Kit)...
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
How TAK transforms public safety with shared awareness and strategic visualization
Insights around how TAK speeds up high-quality decisions for tactical end users
How open-source and AI advancements are setting the stage for the next evolution of TAK
Hear from Ryan McLean - the Director of TAK Product Center.
TAK (Tactical Assault Kit) is a tool that provides shared awareness and helps visualize the relationship between friendly forces and targets. It was initially developed for the Air Force but has recently been adopted by other services and agencies.
Ryan discusses the concept of information dominance and how TAK enables tactical end users to make high-quality decisions faster than their adversaries. He emphasizes the value of TAK for public safety and law enforcement, encouraging them to consider using TAK and highlighting the importance of hands-on experience to understand its benefits. McLean also explains the total cost of ownership of TAK, emphasizing its lower cost than licensed software.
So click play now to find out what he has to share!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
What provides realistic experiences and allows for practicing in high-risk scenarios?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Thanks for joining us for our 4 part TSI Mini Series! The Technology Summit International (TSI), held in Texas from December 5-7, 2023, focused on the practical implementation of technology in fire services. Its aim was to bring together the brightest minds in the fire service to explore technologies that made a real difference in firefighter safety and decision making.
It wasn't just about new tools; it was about effectively integrating them into the everyday realities of firefighting. The summit delved into the root cause of fire service challenges while exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in firefighting.
In this episode:
How can creating and using data effectively be easy, timely, and valuable for firefighters?
In what ways does implementing new data and technology solutions improve efficiency, decision-making, and safety in the fire service?
What potential does virtual reality and immersive learning have in fire service training?
Hear from Rick Huffman - the Division Chief of Clackamas Fire District.
Rick talks about the importance of data and technology in the fire service, highlighting the evolution of data collection. He also emphasizes the challenges of creating and using data effectively, including the need for simplicity and value proposition.
Rick shares success stories of implementing new data and technology solutions in the fire service, and also explores the role of VR and immersive learning in fire service training - particularly for high-risk scenarios.
So click play now to find out what he has to share! And thanks a ton for tuning in to our TSI Mini Series!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Embracing technology requires a mindset of evolution, not revolution...
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Thanks for joining us for our 4 part TSI Mini Series! The Technology Summit International (TSI), held in Texas from December 5-7, 2023, focused on the practical implementation of technology in fire services. Its aim was to bring together the brightest minds in the fire service to explore technologies that made a real difference in firefighter safety and decision making.
It wasn't just about new tools; it was about effectively integrating them into the everyday realities of firefighting. The summit delved into the root cause of fire service challenges while exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in firefighting.
In this episode:
How can technology enhance firefighting without changing tradition?
What are the key challenges and solutions in achieving interoperability and a common operating picture?
How can technology firms and fire departments better work together to enhance the safety and efficiency of firefighting services?
Find out from Shawn Downs - Deputy Fire Chief of Washington DC's Fire and EMS Department.
Chief Downs talks about the transformative impact of technology in the fire service industry, highlighting his experiences at the TSI.
He emphasizes the role of tech in enhancing firefighter training, safety, and operational effectiveness. He also stresses the importance of interoperability among fire departments and advocates for a collaborative approach to problem-solving between tech companies and emergency services.
So click play now to find out what he has to share! And stay tuned for the rest of our TSI Mini Series!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
How is Stationwise setting the bar for integration, efficiency, and user experience in emergency services?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Thanks for joining us for our 4 part TSI Mini Series! The Technology Summit International (TSI), held in Texas from December 5-7, 2023, focused on the practical implementation of technology in fire services. Its aim was to bring together the brightest minds in the fire service to explore technologies that made a real difference in firefighter safety and decision making.
It wasn't just about new tools; it was about effectively integrating them into the everyday realities of firefighting. The summit delved into the root cause of fire service challenges while exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in firefighting.
In this episode:
How can Stationwise's approach to data integration and analysis transform fire departments’ daily operations?
What are the potential impacts of improved staffing and resource management for first responders’ mental health and well-being?
In what ways can fire departments leverage technology like Stationwise to better prepare and respond to the evolving challenges in emergency services?
Hear from Marcus Edwards - the CEO of Stationwise.
Marcus discusses the origin story of the company and its mission to provide vertical software solutions for fire departments. He highlights the pain points in the industry, such as the lack of interoperability and outdated back-office software. Edwards explains how Stationwise aims to save time and streamline processes through automation and integration.
He also emphasizes the importance of effective communication and collaboration within fire departments. Looking ahead, Stationwise plans to scale up and expand its offerings to other industries while maintaining a focus on the fire service.
So click play now to find out what he has to share! And stay tuned for the rest of our TSI Mini Series!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Friday Feb 23, 2024
Friday Feb 23, 2024
Technology should just enhance, not replace, firefighters. Here's how:
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
Thanks for joining us for our 4 part TSI Mini Series! The Technology Summit International (TSI), held in Texas from December 5-7, 2023, focused on the practical implementation of technology in fire services. Its aim was to bring together the brightest minds in the fire service to explore technologies that made a real difference in firefighter safety and decision making.
It wasn't just about new tools; it was about effectively integrating them into the everyday realities of firefighting. The summit delved into the root cause of fire service challenges while exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in firefighting.
In this episode:
How can fire departments balance the preservation of traditional firefighting methods with the adoption of new technologies?
What ethical considerations should be taken into account when implementing advanced technologies in emergency services?
In what ways can international collaboration contribute to the advancement of technology in fire services, and how can smaller departments keep pace with these changes?
Find out from David Povlitz - the Fire Chief at Arlington County Fire Department and chair-elect of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Homeland Security Committee Advisory Council.
Chief Povlitz’s background covers a range of areas, including budget development, information technology integration, emergency communications, training, and emergency management support. He also is an experienced incident commander, planning section chief, and operations section chief for large-scale incidents and complex events. He has more than 20 years of involvement with special operations including hazardous materials, collapsed building and rope rescue, as well as technical, marine, and dive rescue incidents.
So click play now to find out what he has to share! And stay tuned for the rest of our TSI Mini Series!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
What are the keys to successful drone implementation?
Hello Smart Firefighting Community!
Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!
In this episode:
Discover how drone technology can further evolve to meet the unique challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in different environments
Learn about the journey to drone integration, including training, community engagement, and real-world success stories
Understand what measures can be taken to balance the use of drones in policing with concerns about privacy and civil liberties
Hear from Officer Kent Guidry of the Humble (Texas) Police Department.
The department currently has 10 drones, including DJI and Autel models, which are used for various purposes such as crime scene investigation, accident reconstruction, and search and rescue operations. The drones have significantly improved officer safety by providing real-time situational awareness and reducing the need for officers to enter potentially dangerous situations.
The department has also prioritized community engagement and communication to address any privacy concerns and showcase the value of their drone program.
So click play now to find out what he has to share!
Head to www.smartfirefighting.com to discover how SFF accelerates innovation for emergency responders, to find out when our next event is, or review our curated resources!
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn