by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | May 30, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
These past few weeks in Stronach Township, the U.S. Forest Service conducted a series of prescribed burns—planned fires intentionally set under controlled conditions. And like clockwork, the smoke brought complaints. I heard from concerned residents worried that...
by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | May 27, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
The Call to Remember — TogetherMemorial Day has passed, but it must not be forgotten. The cookouts are over, the flags folded, the speeches quiet. But remembrance isn’t something we pack away with the decorations. If anything, the days after Memorial Day are when the...
by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | May 7, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
I watched a video this week that started like some conversations in firehouses do — with frustration. A fire service instructor appeared to initially berate Millennials and Gen Z firefighters for not knowing basic skill sets.But then, something happened:He pivoted.He...
by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | May 6, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
Long before the tones drop, the driver engineer is already two steps ahead. While the rest of the crew is checking gear or catching a prepping for the next training, the engineer is reviewing weather conditions, road closures, hydrant maps, and mental notes from...
