This week on Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna dive into the topic of the classic fire pole versus the modern-day fire slide. As shared in an article from the Daily Dispatch, the Bartlesville Fire Department recently replaced their traditional fire poles with slides to improve efficiency, prompting a deeper discussion on the pros, cons, and safety aspects of both methods.

This week on Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna discuss the significant and dangerous impact of unauthorized drones on firefighting efforts. A story featured in the Daily Dispatch highlights a recent incident at the Palisades Fire on January 9, 2025, where a drone collided with a firefighting aircraft. The collision forced all aircraft to land, temporarily halting aerial operations. The panel explores how these rogue drone activities pose serious risks to both the crews operating aircraft and those working on the ground. They also address the legal consequences for drone operators in active firefighting zones, emphasizing the importance of public awareness to prevent such disruptions in the future.

In this episode of Fire Headlines, Samantha Didion is joined by Chief Ken Kehmna to discuss the challenges many fire departments face with fleet management, particularly the rising costs of purchasing and maintaining fire apparatus. With financial pressures mounting, some departments, like Amarillo Fire Department, are considering leasing fire trucks as an alternative to traditional purchasing. Chief Kehmna shares insights into how leasing can offer financial flexibility, improve fleet reliability, and help departments manage the increasing costs of fire equipment.

In this episode of Fire Headlines, we delve into the crucial role that empathy plays in first responder training. Our guest, Chief Ken Kehmna, shares insights on how empathy can be integrated into training programs to improve both technical skills and compassionate care. We also discuss how innovative tools like Lifecast Body Simulation Manikins are helping first responders better prepare for real-life scenarios.

To kick off the New Year, organizational psychologist and longtime friend of the show, Dr. Andrew Holter joins Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna to dive into the crucial concepts of psychological safety, leadership, and team dynamics within the fire service. Dr. Holter shares his experiences both from the academic and practical sides, offering valuable insights into how fire service organizations can improve their culture, performance, and retention. Drawing on real-world examples, he highlights the challenges faced by fire departments in fostering an environment of trust and communication, particularly in high-stress situations like emergency responses.

In this episode of Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna explore a unique program called Industrial Artistic and Creative Therapy (IACT), designed to help first responders and veterans cope with PTSD and stress through blacksmithing. They discuss how this creative therapy provides a therapeutic outlet and offers participants the chance to develop new skills while connecting with others who share similar struggles. Chief Kehmna shares how this hands-on approach can significantly impact mental well-being.

In this episode of Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna discuss the transformative impact of robotics in the fire service. They begin with a look at the Tulsa Fire Department’s use of drones to monitor a large chemical fire at a petroleum tank farm. The discussion highlights how advancements like these are reshaping operational strategies and safety measures in the fire service.

In this episode of Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna discuss the growing dangers of hazardous social media trends, focusing on the recent "mirror fire challenge" that involves rubbing alcohol. This trend has already caused severe injuries, highlighting the urgent need for fire service professionals to address these risks proactively.