Double hit at the start of the shift!

“Everyone goes!“
Priority transport, possible evacuation, and alarms sounding.
Looks like it’s going to be one of those weeks.
Reporting live from 242 command…
Double hit at the start of the shift!

“Everyone goes!“
Priority transport, possible evacuation, and alarms sounding.
Looks like it’s going to be one of those weeks.
Reporting live from 242 command…
As we reflect on one of the darkest days in our country’s history, we remain thankful for the sacrifices and determination of everyone involved.

2001 was almost two decades ago. Whoa.
Many have asked what I was doing on September 11th. You can read about it here.
Proud to have worked to support FDNY after the attacks primarily serving at 44 Engine in Midtown Manhattan.

We dug at the pit but sad that our crew didn’t find a body to return to the families that lost everything.

Regardless of time, all Firefighters are proud to honor each of the fallen.
My 343 Brother Firefighters who died in the line of duty will never be forgotten.

Tacked on the wall at 10s house
Fast forward to 2020, and we’re all having a rough year. But we as a nation must come together.
While it seems bad right now, we will persevere and overcome these challenges.
We will recover and rebuild because we’ve done it before. Trust me, I’ve been in One World Trade and it’s wonderful in there. Special thanks to my friends at FEMA Region II.

Thanks to Delia and the crew at FEMA Region-2!
…and the views was spectacular.

View of the Hudson River looking east from One World Trade Center

Statue of Liberty (south view) from One World Trade.

The view of West Street (north view) from One World Trade.
However, we will never forget the sacrifices heroes have paid for these freedoms we enjoy. At the base, of One World Trade sits the daily reminder – two incredible tributes to the victims of the September 11th attacks from the former WTCs.

Part of the September 11th Memorial in NYC.
Our colors don’t run. Our fight for freedom will will never waiver.

We has never been shy about being in front and fighting for what’s right. As you know, our nation has gone to the ends of the earth to ensure safety…and we hope to continue this Herculean effort to protect freedoms for decades to come.
“…and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity…”
America the beautiful, my home of the brave.
Is it kinda like the elephant march when we line up ambulances outside?

Overcast dreary morning as we continue to support our public safety pros in the field 24/7. No rest for the weary!
But after Chicago, I was able to switch out to Aurora Station-8 as we discuss some ongoing issues and see how we can creatively explore more training/exercises to increase partnerships/coordination.

Lots of discussion on our ongoing FEMA Emergency Management Basic Academy as we continue to share the good that the DuPage County OHSEM does for all partners.
Sometimes it’s difficult for people to understand that Emergency Management is a different field than 30 years in the fire service or 30 years at the police department or 30 years working at an EMS service. Definitely not the same.
So in that same vein, we need to tailor our classes and exercises to address the all-hazards approach and address all partners.
We are fortunate that our classes are geared to hit all 15 Federal Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) in accordance with national plans. Our guidance is clear as we align with national doctrine, state grants/guidance, and local response plans to coordinate and execute any needed response plans.
The crux is that Emergency Management in the EOC will be the coordinating entity during any emergency or disaster. Period.

In order for locals to execute, State to manage, and Federal to assist and support, we need to have a firm understanding of what happens every step of the way. I am proud of my staff for taking the time to see these things through and explore options for our public safety pros.
No doubt, these are the kinds of things that make our EM stronger and solid at supporting our peeps 24/7/365. We in Emergency Management must continue to build a rock solid collaborative effort with our key players so that when we need to exercise or execute, we can do it seamlessly.
Special thanks to the men and women at the Aurora Fire Station 8 for their warm hospitality. Looking forward to seeing all of you in class and future exercises.
Reporting live from the bay floors between Truck-6 and Engine-99…I mean Engine-8…
Sooooo, is this like a winter condom for your fire hydrant?

Glow in the dark reflective so you can find it better in the dark!!!
I love the extra effort people make to support their local fire department.
#SafetySur approves!
Plan for your family and neighbors? Absolutely!
Always check on your neighbors and make sure they are OK. You never know when you are going to have to save a life. #NatlPrep

Proud Father moment…about my own Dad. You see, he saved our neighbor’s life. Like for reals.
A few weeks ago, while my Father and our family’s dog (Buster) were out in the back yard, they noticed our elderly neighbor face-down in the yard. Not knowing the situation, my Father jumped the fence and rendered immediate medical care, called 9-1-1, and helped guide the HFD Engine and C&C Ambulance to the patient.

My Dad being shy, would easily be the first one to shrug it off and downplay his actions. But it’s really small things like this that make a difference in the lives of so many.
It is in my opinion that if my Father did not jump the fence and immediately rendered aid, our neighbor would have surely died. Now, our neighbors have more time to spend with their entire family together. So I cannot stress enough the importance of doing extraordinary stuff for people…like your neighbors.
This whole week, we have focused on doing things for others. On this #AlohaFriday, I’d like you to keep my Father’s actions in mind as you do the same for your neighbors.

I am so proud of my Dad.
Taking a pause this morning to remember the lives lost on this day in 2001.
We must remain vigilant in our efforts to safeguard our country.
SundayFunday right?

Ambo 93, Ambo 42, and Truck-3 were obv out.
Views from the pad on Sunday.
@rusnivek
Whut. Is. Happening.

Is that Ryan Pennington…that famous JumpSeatViews Firefighter from Charleston Fire?

Yeppers-that’s JumpSeatTraining.
Oh yes, let’s crash this podcast party.
#famous in 3…2..1…

Listen in here.
In this week’s edition of Jumpseat Radio host, Ryan Pennington welcomes his good friend, and PIO Master, Kevin Sur. Kevin travels around the world serving in multiple roles with local, state, and federal government agencies preparing for emergencies. Kevin is a Social Media Master that teaches the benefits and uses of the multiple platforms to different agencies.
Mahalos to Ryan for letting me crash his party!
Reporting live from behind the JumpSeatMic…
Lots of planning at the Cleveland Fire Training Academy today.

Special thanks to the lads at Engine-30 for supporting.