Division Chiefs Q&A October 2024

Division Chiefs Q&A October 2024

Author: Connor Christian October 18, 2024 Duration: 22:18

Division Chiefs Richardson, Powell, Mullane and Pietrzyk answer questions that have come in and discuss their roles/share goals within their respective divisions of Line Support, HPO, Operations and EMS. This episode highlights training initiatives, including wellness programs and cognitive performance improvements. New EMS equipment has been implemented to enhance patient care. Staffing models and recruitment strategies are examined, alongside the EMS rank structure.

Questions include:

  • What are each of you focusing on in your respective divisions?
  • Would South Metro consider a lateral academy process again?
  • Is the EMS Rank Structure here to stay? Are there any changes being made?
  • Why does the dive station staffing model not include a hard staffed 4 divers at each station?

SMFR Podcast, created by Connor Christian, is an internal communication hub for the South Metro Fire Rescue community. This podcast focuses on timely topics that matter to SMFR employees, from organizational updates and leadership messages to operational changes and new initiatives. Each episode dives into current events, important questions, and key announcements that affect everyday work and long term careers within the department. Listeners can expect candid conversations with leaders and subject matter experts, practical guidance on policies and procedures, and insights that connect field operations with administrative decisions. Whether you are on shift or off duty, listen episodes to stay informed, engaged, and aligned with SMFRs mission, values, and evolving priorities in the world of public safety and emergency services.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 27

SMFR Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Chief Chat 2026-Q1: Operations, Strategy, Restructuring [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:09
We’re kicking off the very first episode of our quarterly Chief Chat podcast in Season 3 of the SMFR Podcast. Hosted by Communications Bureau Manager Connor Christian, this quick, conversational episode features Fire Chi…
2026 Re-Accreditation Preparation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:50
South Metro is actively preparing for re-accreditation in 2026, marking the next step in our ongoing commitment to excellence. Every five years, our department participates in a rigorous and comprehensive accreditation c…
Updated Staffing and Trades Policy & Mandatory Overtime Policy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:42
Beginning January 1, 2026, a newly updated mandatory overtime policy will go into effect. This was developed over the past year through a collaborative effort between SMFR and Local 2086. The policy gives employees more…
From NFIRS to NERIS Podcast: What You Need to Know [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:03
Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for important updates about the transition to NERIS (National Emergency Response Information System), which is the modern reporting platform replacing NFIRS. In this episode, w…
Fire Prevention Week 2025: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
Check out this special edition SMFR Podcast about Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety! SMFR Captain & Hazmat Team Coordinator Chris Wells and Community Risk Reduction Specialist Brandi Miller discuss how Lithium-Ion Batterie…
Fire Chief & Deputy Chiefs Updates - Sept. 2025 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:38
Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for the latest updates directly from our Fire Chief and Deputy Chiefs. Hear from each leader in their respective roles as they share insights on their vision, key focus areas,…
Behavioral Health and Wellness Update Podcast [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:29
Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for the latest updates on Behavioral Health and Wellness at SMFR. Deputy Chief of Internal Services Matt Weller introduces our guiding principles and commitment to taking care…
Where We're Headed: Financial Outlook and Community Engagement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:08
Watch or listen in to this special episode of South Metro's Podcast. Hosted by Deputy Chief of Community Services Kristin Eckman, this episode dives into crucial topics around the district’s service delivery, sustainabil…
Introducing the New Fire Ground Operations Manual [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:45
SMFR Division Chief of Operations Mike Mullane and Battalion Chief of Administration Mike Burke unveil the new Fire Ground Operations Manual, addressing past shortcomings and highlighting significant improvements. A SOG…
EMS Rank Structure Reevaluation and Updates [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:55
Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for important updates on the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) rank structure, highlighting its evolution and the need for reevaluation due to growth and challenges. Key topics…