On October 5^th, the NJ Deputy & Battalion Fire Chief's Association hosted another Fire Service Seminar at New Jersey City University, in Jersey City. There were close to 300 participants, as well as fire service related vendors.

Master of Ceremony Chris Cotter welcomed all and informed them that they were attending an “unprecedented line up of speakers.” The organization's president, Charles Lind, Jr., also welcomed all that gave up their Saturday to improve their knowledge. The members of his organization deserved great credit for their hard work to make these seminars a reality.  President Lind especially pointed out Perth Amboy Chief of Department Ed Mullen for his dedicated assistance. The first such seminar organized by the association was held in 2014. 

In addition, Jersey City Chief of Department Jack Johnson was in attendance and welcomed all. He said he was an example of what these classes are all about. The chief added that he took many courses over the years and said, “I'm a success from classes like this. This is something we need.”  

“Welcome to the biggest Fire Service seminar on the East Coast,” said retired FDNY Deputy Chief Vincent Dunn,” as he led off with his topic. Chief Dunn has 40-years of experience with the FDNY, including during the “War Years.” He has authored twelve books and was described as “the Dean of Fire Service authors.”

“When the encyclopedia is here, use it!” said one speaker.

The speakers all have an impressive list of credentials. This column will mention their fire department affiliation for brevity sake. 

Chief Dunn began with, “The Enemy-Fire.” “You can't know enough about fire,” he said.

Retired Hamilton Township Deputy Chief Aaron Heller's topic was, “Commanding the Commercial Fire Ground.” Retired Fire Marshal and former Leonia Deputy Chief Jack Murphy discussed “Alteration Projects/Existing Buildings,” along with FDNY 9^th Battalion Commander Anthony Pascocello. One tip about pulling up to an incident in a building is to “check the dumpster” outside and see what it contains. Professor, and former Waldwick Deputy Chief, Glenn Corbett teamed up with retired Summit Chief Rick DeGroot to cover, “Fire Safety in High-Risk VADC Buildings. (Vacant, Abandon, Derelict, Condemned). The day was wrapped up by retired North Hudson Deputy Chief Anthony Avillo and retired North Providence, R.I., Battalion Chief John Cagno, Jr. with, “Strategic Size-Up.  Do you see what I see?” This also covered “emotional firefighting."  

As in the organization's past seminars, there was never a dull moment. Their experiences from the street were passed on to all in attendance keeping everyone's interest.  

In addition to refreshment recesses, numerous fire service related items were part of a large raffle of gifts. Also, as in the past, participants had the opportunity to have their books autographed by authors that were part of the seminar, as well as meeting them in person.  

President Lind said the next program is planned for 2026.