Better Every Shift Aggressive firefighting: ‘We’ve corrupted the concept’
Aug 7, 2025
Join chiefs John Oates and John Tippett as they tackle the complexities of modern firefighting. Oates, CEO of the International Public Safety Data Institute, and Tippett, Director of fire service programs at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, delve into the balance between aggressive tactics and safety culture. They discuss critical insights from the 'What Firefighters Want in 2025' survey, the significance of after-action reviews, and the alarming number of reported close calls, all while advocating for continuous education and community trust.
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Aggression And Safety Can Coexist
- Aggression and safety are not mutually exclusive and must coexist on the fireground.
- Defining what
Use Intent Instead Of 'Aggressive'
- Replace the loaded term “aggressive” with clear statements of intent and desired outcomes.
- Frame tactics as intentional choices to serve the community and each other, not reckless bravado.
Educate The Community On Limits
- Communities have different expectations and must be educated about what their fire departments can safely provide.
- Leaders should honestly explain limits in staffing, equipment, and capability to set realistic community expectations.