W.S. Darley and Hoverfly have teamed up to bring you some live unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV, a.k.a. drone) video from the FDIC International 2017 hands-on training sites. Watch above.

Building a Fire Department UAV Program

Drones and the Fire Service

Drones Poised to Be Used on More Fire Scenes Across the United States

FDNY Deploys Drone at Building Fire

FDNY Drone Pics

Monday morning’s workshop, “The ATF Fire Research/Arson Program: What the Fire Service Needs to Know,” had few empty seats. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) instructor team reviewed the results the ATF’s fire research on Fire Attack Hoseline Thermal Failure and Fire Flow Path Thermal Analysis and applied them to several recent case studies, including firefighter line-of-duty deaths (LODDs).

Fire dynamics topics specific to these cases were also discussed in detail, using testing data and testing videos and both bench-scale and full-scale hoseline testing were presented. The Fire Attack Hoseline Thermal Failure research was presented to National Fire Protection Association 1961 committee in 2016 and prompted it to adopt the first ever radiant heat test for all listed hoselines.

How to Become a Fire Investigator | ANTIARSON EFFORTS | IN THE COVER OF DARKNESS: ARSONIST STRIKES

By Robert Maloney

Firefighter safety is one motivator for his research into all aspects of the hoarder home phenomenon, Training Officer Ryan Pennington of the Charleston (WV) Fire Department told workshop attendees. At the Monday morning presentation, “Hoarder Fires: Lessons from Inside the Stacks of Dangers,” he drew on personal experiences and incident-related photos and video to illustrate the dangers. He noted that the hoarding condition is not limited to any particular demographic, area, or even nation, he said; it is a global phenomenon, and is growing.

Of particular concern are how firefighters approach such responses, and the tactics they use. A 360-degree survey is essential, he said, using photos to point out some clues indicating a possible hoarding situation. He also explained why such responses require firefighters to reconsider their tactics such as those related to search and rescue and ventilation.

READ: Hoarder Fires: Going Offensive on Traditionally Defensive Fires | The Dangers of Hoarder Fires

Pennington also reviewed aspects of the compulsive hoarding disorder that compels this behavior and the importance of respectfully communicating with such individuals regarding their collection. 

Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI) next-generation X12 engine will set new industry standards for performance in fire and emergency apparatus. To be revealed this week at the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) International, Booth 5429, the X12 has the highest power-to-weight ratio of any engine in the 10-to-16-liter class. Rated at up to 500 hp, it weighs 400 lb to 600 lb less than other medium-bore engines. This means less weight on the front axle, which, combined with its compact configuration, enables greater flexibility in cab design.

The innovative architecture of the X12 results in a remarkably low engine weight, at only 2,050 lb. A sculptured block design allows unnecessary mass to be removed while retaining high rigidity. Substantial weight savings are also achieved by the use of high-strength composite materials for the oil pan and valve cover.

"During the design process for the X12, we evaluated every opportunity to reduce size and lower weight, achieving this with no compromise to structural strength so that this next-generation 12-liter comes with all the durability associated with a Cummins Heavy-Duty engine," said Jim Fier, Cummins Vice President - Engineering. "We are really excited about how the X12 provides OEM partners with a lighter weight, rugged and powerful engine that not only provides great performance, it allows for more critical equipment to be transported to the scene."

Additional integration and weight savings were realized with the new Single Module(TM) aftertreatment, designed by Cummins Emission Solutions to be up to 40 percent lighter and up to 60 percent smaller than current aftertreatment designs. The compact design is easier to install and service, and the exceptional thermal efficiency of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) requires fewer regenerations. Integral to the system are the latest Cummins Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) doser and a new compact mixer design, resulting in a more precise spray pattern, to enhance X12 reliability while minimizing DEF consumption.

The next-generation X12 is available with ratings that range from 455 hp to 500 hp, and was designed to meet the maximum performance needs of fire and emergency apparatus. With 1695 lb-ft maximum torque maintained from 1000 to 1300 rpm, the X12 provides great launching ability and highly responsive overall vehicle performance. As on all Cummins-powered emergency vehicle engines, calibrations maintain maximum performance even if an emissions-related fault occurs or during aftertreatment system regeneration. Also, when the X12 is specified with an Onan(R) generator, the Cummins service network is the single source for maintenance, parts and service for both the engine and generator.

Customer-focused innovations on the X12 include a Single-Cam In-Head (SCIH) design with a roller valve train and high-efficiency intake ports, to minimize frictional losses and improve fuel economy. The cylinder architecture minimizes oil consumption, and fully integrated return paths send oil flowing back through the filter, reducing degradation. With over 3 million Cummins VGT(R) Turbochargers in service today, the Cummins VGT Turbocharger sets the industry standard for reliability and durability. Enhancements to this proven design boost transient response and, in combination with an integrated low-weight engine brake, provide strong engine braking at lower rpm. The XPI fuel system, derived from the X15 engine, is scaled in size to match the 12-liter platform while retaining all the same robust characteristics. Additionally, the X12 shares common components with the Cummins X15, including the Single Module aftertreatment system, oil filters and fuel filters, and the compact design l