by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | Jun 19, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
🔥Behind The Alarm“I’ve been studying leadership my entire life, and I’m still not sure I can define it. But I know it when I see it.”— Chief Alan BrunaciniI wish I could say I was an extraordinary fire service professional. I wish I could say I’m exceptional in...
by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | Jun 8, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
It’s storm season in America’s heartland. Tornadoes are already touching down. Flash floods are washing out roads. Hail, lightning, and high winds are becoming regular evening headlines. Now more than ever, reliable emergency alerts aren’t just helpful—they’re...
by Fred R. LaPoint, Fire Chief Paramedic | Jun 6, 2025 | Behind The Alarm
***First some important statistics:🚗 Vehicle Submersion Statistics in the U.S.Incidence: Approximately 1,200 to 1,500 vehicle submersion incidents occur annually in the United States, resulting in 400 to 600 deaths each year.Fatalities: These incidents account for...
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...
