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If Your Size-Up Starts at Dispatch, You’re Already Losing
09/01/2025
If Your Size-Up Starts at Dispatch, You’re Already Losing
🔥 On this episode of Side Alpha Leadership, I sat down with my good friend Hank Henline to dig into what it really means to lead from the front as a fire service lieutenant. We didn’t just talk theory—we got into the real-world stuff that makes or breaks an officer on the fireground: size-ups that start before the tones drop, making the right call on water supply, whether you’re in the city or the sticks, and how understanding building construction can literally save lives. Hank and I broke down the importance of the 360, especially when you’re dealing with complex layouts like garden apartments, where one wrong assumption can get your crew jammed up fast. We also talked about the latest rescue tools hitting the street and why staying current isn’t optional—it’s survival. If you’re an officer, an aspiring leader, or just someone who wants to sharpen their edge in the fire service, this conversation is packed with lessons you can use the next time the bell hits. _________________________________________________________________________ 🚨 Key Takeaways Size-up starts before dispatch. If you’re waiting for the tones to think, you’re already behind. Know your people. Crew dynamics can make or break the operation. Water supply matters. City and rural tactics aren’t the same—adapt or fail. Building construction saves lives. Know what you’re walking into before you commit. Never skip the 360. Situational awareness starts outside. Garden apartments = hidden traps. Learn the layouts before you’re crawling them. Gear is evolving. Stay ahead with new rescue tools and techniques. Talk it out. Communication under pressure keeps the fireground from unraveling. Train like lives depend on it—because they do. Experience is earned, not given. Don’t be a dinosaur. Embrace new tools, training, and leadership styles. HRS Follow the link to get this awesome RIT tool
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