Michael Josef Ibel’s Post

Certainly, here's a sample post topic about brave firefighters: "Unsung Heroes: A Day in the Life of a Firefighter" The post could showcase the daily routine of firefighters, emphasizing the courage and dedication required in their line of work. It could include images and stories from actual firefighters, featuring their training, the risks they face, and the vital role they play in keeping our communities safe.

One of my biggest pet peeves is hearing that “events” are not a part of the job description as a firefighter. Maybe not, but prevention is. Getting out there and being seen IS prevention. Letting people know that as a fire department, we are a community asset, is one of the greatest parts of our jobs. Our job is not to just react to the event of a fire but do what we can to prevent these fires #fireprevention #preventinsteadofreact #firemarshal

Auxiliary Firefighter Spotlight: TJ McNamara In July 2023, ten passionate individuals completed their training and orientation, becoming operational as auxiliary firefighters at City of Vernon Fire Station #3 on Predator Ridge Drive. Our auxiliary firefighters are more than just responders—they're pillars of our community, enhancing not only the safety and security of our community but bringing an added sense of safety to our residents. WHAT INSPIRED OR MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER IN OUR COMMUNITY? Two reasons: My wife wanted to join the volunteer department here and it was something that we could do together, which has been fun. The other was that I had an experience while driving from Vernon to Predator Ridge a couple of years back where I tried to 'help' a property owner that had a pretty major fire going on his property... that experience really taught me that I knew nothing about fire behaviour or the risks, which made me think about getting some real training. ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC SKILLS OR TRAINING YOU'VE ACQUIRED AS A FIREFIGHTER THAT YOU FIND PARTICULARLY VALUABLE OR INTERESTING? Incident Command Systems. Seeing under the hood of how different organizations can come together to communicate effectively, delegate responsibility, and work as team to solve dynamic situations has been very interesting to me. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING BECOMING A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER? Don't wait. Jump in. It is rewarding. Learn more about TJ and his experience as an auxiliary firefighter: https://loom.ly/eXWDofo

We’re putting a fireside focus on this month’s topics. We’re going to continue the focus by talking about firefighter news and stats. What would you like to add? #firefighters #FirefighterNews #FirstResponderCoaching #FiresideFocus #FirefighterLife #FirefighterStats #FirefighterSupport https://lnkd.in/er5_CAct

❓ Want to know how to thank a firefighter? 👏🔥 Prevent all unwanted human-caused fires (a thank you card or a high five ✋ is pretty nice as well) 😉 With current high temperatures, numerous fires both locally and in neighboring states, and a good two more months of fire season ahead, it’s imperative that we do everything we can to avoid adding to the fire load with preventable ignitions. Feeling extra motivated? Create defensible and survivable space around your home and property. This not only creates a safer working environment for our fire folks but also increases your resilience to wildfire. Learn more about what you can do here: 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gtHP6xcR #OneTeam #ThankAFirefighter #WildfirePrevention #FirePreventionJen 📸 Brendan Horan, IDL Teakean T2IA HC. Crew walking into #TexasFire2024 Kendrick, Idaho.

Heroes Among Us: Celebrating the Auxiliary Firefighters of Predator Ridge We're excited to shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals who serve as auxiliary firefighters right here in our community. Through these features, we'll introduce you to our auxiliary firefighters, exploring their motivations to become a part of the firefighting community, their personal experiences, and the invaluable role that they play in fostering community spirit. 🌟 Carly Reise 🌟 WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER? WAS IT A SPECIFIC MOMENT, INCIDENT, CONVERSATION, OR EXPERIENCE? There are a few reasons. My Grandpa was a Volunteer Fire Fighter in a small town in Ontario, and he was the Fire Chief for 25 years. Although he had retired by the time I was around, I remember my mom telling me stories of the "Red Phone" ringing in the house when there was a call. That combined with wanting to do something to give back to the community, and doing something to challenge myself a bit is why I joined. IS THERE A MESSAGE OR PIECE OF ADVICE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR COMMUNITY REGARDING FIRE SAFETY, FIRESMART, OR THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORTING VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS? My advice to the community is the importance of preparedness. It's crucial to FireSmart your property and have a 'go bag' at the ready during fire season. Staying well-informed is vital, so I recommend signing up for official news releases to get accurate updates about your area – it's much more reliable than social media platforms like Facebook or Next Door. Remember, we're all in this together. It's important to check on your neighbors, ensure they're also prepared, and extend kindness to each other. Supporting each other is one of the many things that makes Predator Ridge exceptional. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING BECOMING A VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER? My advice is pretty straight forward. Go for it! I want to particularly encourage women – you absolutely can do this. Yes, it's challenging, but you're never alone; you always have a team member by your side. It's an incredibly rewarding way to push your limits and grow both personally and professionally. Thank you, Carly, for sharing your experience as an Auxiliary Firefighter! You can read the rest of Carly's interview here: bit.ly/49t2bmF

It can be tough to ask a firefighter about their worst day on the job. Firefighters are often faced with traumatic events, and discussing them can be extremely uncomfortable. Firefighters are continuously called into situations where people are at their worst. They may encounter serious accidents, life-threatening fires, and other dangerous situations. While these experiences can be difficult, many firefighters find meaning and reward in their work by helping people in need. If you feel the tug of curiosity to ask a firefighter about their worst day on the job, it’s important to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Remember that firefighters are human beings who may have experienced trauma or loss. Be respectful of their feelings and give them space to share their experiences if they feel comfortable doing so. In this episode of Humanizing the Uniform™, Firefighter/Paramedic Ben Linzey of Lower Valley Fire in Colorado shares the powerful perspectives of being a Firefighter. Text the word Uniform to 864-400-1582 or go to https://smpl.is/88hv3 to watch the full episode releasing this Saturday — available exclusively to those subscribe to our SMS community. . . #FRBAOriginalSeries #FRBAseries #HumanizingtheUniform #lifestories #lifestory #firstresponder #supportingourheroes #FirstResponders #firefighter #fireman #rescue #thinredline #firedept #firelife #firefighter #firefighters #firerescue #frba #firstrespondermentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters

🔥🛠️ Every firefighter knows the value of their tools, and among the most essential is the Halligan bar. 💪 Named after its inventor, Hugh Halligan, this versatile tool is a true lifesaver in the field. From forcible entry to search and rescue missions, it's the Swiss Army knife of firefighting. Here's why it's a firefighter's best friend: 🛠️Forcible Entry: Whether it's prying open doors or breaking through obstacles, the Halligan's pry bar end is unmatched. It gives us the leverage needed to access buildings quickly during emergencies. 🛠️Versatility: With its adze and forked end, the Halligan can perform a variety of tasks. From breaking windows to pulling down walls, there's hardly a challenge it can't tackle. 🛠️Search and Rescue: When lives are at stake, every second counts. The Halligan's versatility comes into play during search and rescue operations, helping us navigate through debris and reach those in need. 🛠️Durability: Built to withstand the toughest conditions, the Halligan is a tool we can rely on in the heat of the moment. It's made to endure the rigors of firefighting, ensuring it's always ready when called upon. 🛠️Teamwork: Like any tool, the Halligan is most effective when used in conjunction with others. It's a symbol of teamwork and camaraderie among firefighters, reminding us that together, we're stronger. So here's to the unsung hero of the firefighting world - the Halligan bar. 🚒🔥 Next time you see one in action, remember the vital role it plays in keeping our communities safe. #HalliganBar Captain Muhammad Saqib

🔥 MYTH BUSTED: Rope and confined space rescues aren't just for firefighters and professional rescuers! 🌟 With the right training and gear, many people can perform these rescues safely. 💪 Industrial rescue teams, search and rescue volunteers, and even mountaineers undergo rigorous training for these situations. 🌍 Private organizations and adventure companies also prepare their staff to handle such emergencies. 🛡️ It's all about having the proper training and continually practicing these essential skills. Remember, safety first! 🚨 #RescueSkills #SafetyFirst #TrainingMatters #MythBusted #EmergencyPreparedness #RescueReady #StaySafe #AlwaysPrepared

When I signed up for the fire academy I knew becoming a firefighter would challenge me, but being a firefighter changed me in ways I didn’t expect. It was more than a job—it shaped who I am today. My years in the fire service taught me… Resilience: I learned to stay calm when things get intense. After a while, you realize you're tougher than you thought, and that confidence sticks with you. Empathy: Seeing people at their worst brings out your compassionate side. You become more understanding and eager to help others, not just at work but in everyday life. Responsibility: The job teaches you the weight of your actions. Knowing what you do can save lives makes you more responsible and dependable in everything you do. Courage: Running toward danger isn’t easy, but you get used to it. This bravery isn’t just about the job—it helps you face all kinds of challenges in life. Humility: Despite the “hero” label, the job keeps you humble. You see how fragile life is, which makes you appreciate the little things more. Adaptability: Firefighting is always changing, so you learn to adapt. This makes you more open to change and better at handling whatever life throws your way. When I joined the fire service I knew I needed structure in my life, but that was simply scratching the surface of all that chapter in my life gave to me and the lessons I still carry with me every day. I’m grateful for the time I spent in the fire service and the first responders that keep our communities safe each and every day. #growth #mystory #service