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Two More Chains    
  A lesson is learned when we change our behavior.  
 
 
 
 
 
Two More Chains is dedicated to sharing information with all wildland firefighters. This Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center publication is produced four times a year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter). For story tips, questions, or comments, please contact: Paul Keller, prkeller@fs.fed.us, 503-622-4861.
 
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 Spring 2013  Share
This issue’s cover story—“TRAINING: What Does It Mean?”—takes a closer look at how we might want to redefine or reimagine what “training” means to us. Bottom Line: Training shouldn’t be limited to the classroom. We all like to learn—what are you doing to make it happen? Tying directly into this “hands-on” theme, the One of Our Own section tells the story of how Palomar Hotshot Brandon Opliger helped his crew produce a seven-minute video on “Leadership in Motion.” In his Ground Truths page, Travis Dotson explains how you might already be leading without even knowing it. The Shop Talk page asks: “Do You Drill?”
 

 
 Winter 2013  Share
“Taking Care of Our Own” is the theme of this issue that takes a deeper look into what this concept truly means. Included in this issue: the compelling “journey to recovery” story shared by South Canyon Fire survivor Kim Lightley and insights from Ahtanum IA Crew Supervisor Ben Goble, who lost two of his crew members last September in a motor vehicle accident. How the Union Hotshots responded to an “unacceptable situation” and lent a fellow firefighter a hand is also featured. “What’s in Your Crew Boss Kit?” is the focus of our Shop Talk page—designed to help folks be better prepared for traumatic events, including references for helping these event’s survivors. In his Ground Truths column, Travis Dotson asks: “How Do We Know This Job is Dangerous?”


 
Two More Chains Cover - Fall 2012Fall 2012  Share   
Wheels, Wings, and Rotors. Getting there and getting back. It’s our most dangerous activity. How come?
This issue takes a deeper look into why firefighters keep getting injured and killed in driving and flying accidents. Included in this issue: a firsthand driving accident account from the crew of Engine 713; and a good tip—with a “show me” video link—on how to remove that rock stuck between your dual tires. In his Ground Truths column, Travis Dotson explores why we need to be careful of what we ask people to do—because they will do it.


Summer 2012  Share
This issue focuses on firing operations. What does a good firing show look like? And, what could go wrong? If you've ever heard: "Hustle up, the window is closing!" you'll want to check out Travis Dotson's "Ground Truths" page. Our "Shop Talk" page provides you an interactive Tactical Decision Game firing operation scenario. Alex Viktora, with his wealth of firing operations experience, is featured in our "One of Our Own" section.




 

Spring 2012    Share
“Initial Attack – We’re Doing a Good Job, But . . .” this issue’s cover story, explores the challenges and risks—potential pitfalls—that might await you on your next IA assignment. Travis Dotson’s “Ground Truths” delves into why we love IA, as well as its associated dangers and opportunities. Also in this issue: videos that share Initial Attack lessons; nozzle tips; Tim Woody—a veteran firefighter with extended east and west coast wildland fire experience—shares his spot-on IA insights; and the annual 2011 Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award recipients.






Two More ChainsWinter 2012  Share
"Prescribed Fire Escapes: Are We Learning Anything?"
this issue's cover story, explores whether or not we're actually learning from our escapes—and how we can help to ensure that we are. Also in this issue: Two burn bosses share their key lessons and hard-earned insights; Drip torch tips; and Readers are alerted to the hazards of the"What were they thinking?" mindset.
 
 
 
Two More Chains Fall 2011
Fall 2011 Share
“Your Fire Shelter: Would You Hesitate Deploying It? this issue’s cover story, focuses on wildland firefighters’ reluctance to use their fire shelters. Why does this happen? What can we do about this fire shelter “stigma”? Also in this issue: firefighter Brian Hicks shares key lessons learned from his 2011 entrapment experience; tips for calling in your position—using Lat/Longs correctly; and readers are asked: “Do you fight fire like you drive?”

 


Two More Chains-Summer 2011Summer 2011  Share
“If a Tree Falls in the Forest . . .” this issue’s cover story, focuses on the threat of trees—or pieces of them—falling on wildland firefighters and actions that can be taken to reduce this risk. Also in this issue: Why you should read accident reports; Chainsaw troubleshooting tips; and the remarkable story of Krstofer Evans, the Plumas Hotshot sawyer who was paralyzed when a fire snag fell on him during a Kentucky arson fire.






 
Spring 2011    Share
This first issue of Two More Chains features insights into emergency medical evacuation procedures, including a review of the related Dutch Creek protocol and procedures—and a memorial tribute to firefighter Andy Palmer. Readers are also provided a firsthand account from a wildland firefighter, a certified Wilderness EMT, who was involved in the emergency medivac of a fellow firefighter hit by a 400-pound boulder. Handheld radio tips and a new sticker insert for your IRPG are also featured.
 
 
 
 

 
Disclaimer: Information is provided with the intent to share knowledge to improve safety, performance, efficiency and organizational learning throughout the entire wildland fire community. However, no warranties or guarantees are implied because much of the data provided is beyond the control of the Center. No endorsement of any company or product is given or implied.