With the Fire Department Instructors Conference just a few weeks away, International Fire and Safety Managing Editor Duncan J. White recently took the opportunity to sit down with FDIC legends Eric Schlett and David Rhodes. This relaxed and light-hearted discussion looks at what visitors to FDIC can expect in relation to the Hands on Training (HOT) sessions taking place around Indianapolis and the trade show running in the Indiana Convention Centre and Lucas Oil Stadium. The interview kicks off with a tribute to the father of FDIC Chief (Ret) Bobby Halton who will never be far from anyone’s thoughts during their time in Indy. Eric and David share exciting news about the new experiences visitors can expect from this year’s event. Make sure you take the opportunity to enjoy these three well known fire service figures sharing memories, experiences and having fun together!

For more information about FDIC, go to www.fdic.com

This podcast explores the role of virtual reality in the fire services industry, bringing together a wealth of knowledge from three continents with guest speakers Dr James Mullins, founder and CTO of FLAIM Systems and volunteer firefighter in Australia; former Lieutenant, USA Fire Department, Evan Wing; and former UK Fire Officer, Ted O’Brien. The conversation opens with a history on the foundations of FLAIM, as Dr James Mullins reveals the challenges that exist for firefighters in the ANZ region and the role of virtual reality. The podcast then unravels the challenges and opportunities unique to each continent, exposing the regional differences in the adoption of new technology in the fire services industry. Listen to the podcast to find out why the fire sector is slow to adopt technological change.

Georgina Gilbert and Rebecca Openshaw- Rowe are the Antarctic Fire Angels. In this podcast IFSJ Group Editor Duncan J White talks with George and Bex about their forthcoming unaided trek from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole in November 2023.