Firehouse Mentor

If you’ve ever wanted to mentor others, but aren’t sure how or where to start, and who to start with, Firehouse Mentor makes it easy. This valuable guide written by two veteran firefighters offers immense rewards on its simple and fun journey toward mentoring. The book addresses negative and destructive behaviors and how to change them. Each topic guides the mentor, laying out the behavior to be addressed while providing multiple solutions, as well as a follow-through section monitoring the results. The book is designed to maintain the span-of-control with one mentor and up to five mentees. “Developing, growing, and strengthening the next generation of firefighters is what mentoring is all about and it’s a much-needed commodity in today’s fire service. I highly recommend this book for any progressive department wanting to set the stage for the next generation and prepare them for success.” – Fire Chief Les Karpluk, ECFO, author of Purpose Filled Leadership and co-author of Leadership Prescribed and Leadership Prescribed 2.0 “Acquiring some understanding of why we do things is often a prerequisite to change. This is especially true when talking about repetitive patterns of behavior that do not serve us well.” – Nick Brunacini, author of B Shifter and Staring into the Sun, retired firefighter, Blue Card instructor

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department by Tom Merrill highlights the importance of developing and upholding a professional reputation in the firefighting community, regardless of whether one is a paid or volunteer firefighter. Merrill emphasizes that professionalism is not tied to a paycheck but is instead defined by attitude, appearance, competency, commitment, and dedication. Endorsed by several Chiefs, this book is regarded as a must-read for all volunteer firefighters. It provides valuable insights into recruiting, retaining, and developing professional volunteer firefighters. Merrill's expertise challenges readers to elevate their performance and raise the standards within their departments, ultimately contributing to the overall professionalism of the volunteer fire service Through this captivating and informative book, Merrill aims to instill a sense of pride and service above self in volunteer firefighters. The book serves as a rallying call for those who are passionate about their service and ignites a fire within them to continue making a difference. Testimonials “If you can read this book and not feel a sense of pride, that overwhelming feeling of service above self, the feeling that what you do as a volunteer firefighter matters, then maybe it’s time for a change. But if you are the one who reads it and gets fired up about what we do, then you’re in for a very special ride!” —Chief Rick Lasky, Fire Chief (ret.), Lewisville Texas “Tom Merrill is a true gentleman and a professional. His classes and articles detailing professionalism in the volunteer fire service are captivating and informative. This book is no different and should be on the must-read list of all volunteer firefighters, regardless of rank, title, or experience.” —Brandon S. Fletcher, Fire Chief, Gilt Edge (TN) Fire Department “Tom Merrill has spent his life working to improve the ‘professional’ image of the volunteer firefighter. This book is a compilation of his experiences and what works and doesn’t work in the recruiting, retaining, and development of the professional volunteer firefighter. His writing challenges you to raise your standard of performance.” —Chief John M. Buckman III, State Fire Training Director at Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office

The McAdoos' chatty, folksy style gives us an endearing glimpse into the lives of some of Texas's courageous firefighters and a peek into firehouse kitchens across the state.

Fall in love with a Lauren Blakely romance, which NYT bestselling author Carly Phillips calls “The perfect blend of sexy and emotional, with sparks and heat!” Dog trainer Cara Bailey wants to find "the one," but fantasizing about her sexy-as-hell client, firefighter Travis Jansen, is getting in the way. Her only option? Get the confirmed bachelor out of her system—in every position possible—so she can settle down with Mr. Right. Starting right now. Travis doesn't do relationships, so no matter how badly he wants the pretty little brunette, he keeps his distance...until Cara goes and changes the game. She'll fulfill all of his fantasies if he agrees to walk away when it's over. But when the wildfire between them blazes out of control, it will consume everything—and everyone—in its path... Previously released on Entangled’s Brazen imprint (August 2015), now updated for a new readership! Each book in the Fighting Fire series is STANDALONE: * Burn for Me * Melt For Him * Consumed By You

Do you ever wish you had someone who believed in you, someone who encouraged and guided you through life’s ebbs and flows? In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, the longing for a guiding light is universal. Whether you’re a young professional embarking on a new career path, an artist seeking your unique voice, a budding entrepreneur with dream of success, or someone simply yearning for personal growth and transformation, the quest for mentorship and guidance is ever-present. Have you wondered: What if there was a source of inspiration that could propel you toward your goals? How can mentorship help you unleash your full potential and navigate the complexities of life? Where can you find the stories and insights that resonate with your own journey? Is there a way to connect with mentors and mentees who have walked the path before you? “The Alchemy of Mentorship” is your answer. This book delves into the lives of remarkable individuals who found mentors, forged profound connections, and transformed their destinies. Through their stories, you’ll uncover the invaluable lessons, timeless wisdom, and unwavering support that mentorship can provide. Join us on a journey through the corridors of history and the landscapes of personal growth. Explore the power of mentorship and discover how it can empower you to become the best version of yourself. Are you ready to embark on a transformative voyage? The guidance you seek is just a page away.

Getting promoted in the fire service is not an easy process. Many people have that desire to promote, but for whatever reason cannot put the pieces together to make it a reality. Over the 20 plus years I have been in the fire service, I have had the opportunity to be on both sides of the promotional process - as a candidate, and as a rater and proctor. This book will assist fire department personnel specifically prepare for their next promotional exam. Promotional candidates will be exposed to and offered key points for the most common tasks and events within a fire department promotional process including, but not limited to: promotional preparation, completing the application, resume preparation, the written exam, the oral interview, the personnel problem, the oral presentation, and the emergency simulation.

When I first joined the Rensselaer Fire Department in 1974, I was only 17 Years Old and did not know that I was getting myself into. I did not have a whole lot of knowledge about the Fire Department or how things worked at the time. I joined mostly for the bar, which most young guys my age wanted to do. Before long, when I learned more about the workings of the Fire Department, I became very interested and became a very active volunteer. In a short time, I became a Parade Officer and eventually a Fire Officer. In the late 1980s, I was appointed a Vacation Relief Driver for the Paid Side of the Fire Department. I did this from 1988 until 1992. Really, hoped for a Full Time Position that never panned out due to political reasons. I nearly forty years being involved with the City of Rensselaer Fire Department and as a member of the James Hill Hook and Ladder, Truck Company #1, I have seen a lot of ups and downs. Fortunately, there have been many more highs than there have been lows. The friendships and lifelong bonds I have made will be with me for the rest of my life. I sincerely hope that anyone who reads this book will enjoy it very much, bring some laughs and, for some, bring back some Wonderful and Funny Memories. Please Enjoy. Bill Reimann

Rick Lasky and John Salka are two of the most dynamic and inspirational leaders in the fire service. Their book, Five Alarm Leadership, is a compilation of leadership lessons learned, situations handled, decisions made, and problems solved during their combined 60-plus years of fire service experience. Also included is a special introduction by Chief (ret.) Bobby Halton, Editor-in-Chief of Fire Engineering magazine, outlining the nature of transformational leadership and its power to inspire excellence in the fire service.