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Product Review- Black Diamond X-Boot, Review #1

I was contacted by a representative of Black Diamond boots and asked if I would be interested in reviewing their “X-Boot”.  Since I spend a tremendous amount of time in gear, and get every ounce of use from my gear and tools, I felt like I could offer some good feedback.

As a background, I have worn/owned leather bunker boots from Warrington, Haix, Thorogood and Globe as well as rubber boots from Ranger and Black Diamond.

  • My first impression of this boot was that it looked good.  They are simple, all black , and the details in the “cosmetics” make them a good looking boot.
  • The integrated pull-on handles at the boot cuff is a nice feature.  Also, the cuff is much more narrow than the Globe which makes it a lot easier to get your bunker pants down around the boot.
  • Reinforcing in the toe seems like it will add to the durability of the toe.  We’ll see.
  • The kevlar boot body make them very light and, out of the box, they are easy to put on and comfortable.
  • Waterproofing is GREAT.  Waded through shin deep water during a severe thunderstorm and my feet were totally dry and comfortable.  Also, the outside of the boots dried quickly.

Great start to the the review.  I am looking forward to a few long teaching days to give me a good idea of their true comfort.  More reviews to come.  Good first impression.

Thanks and Be SAFE

Xboot4
Xboot3
Xboot2
Xboot


Posted in Firefighter Safety & Health, News, Product Review

Tagged , ,

1 comment Posted by on August 9, 2010

Tips for Advancing the Attack Line

Control FF at Door
Burned Through Attack Line
Nail In Attack Line
advancinghoseline


Nothing is more fundamental, or important, when extinguishing a fire than stretching an attack line and putting water on the fire.  Yet, as fundamental as it is, there are some things to keep in mind that will help keep your attack line moving through a structure and keep you and your crew from having a really bad day.

  1. Know your equipment: your hoseloads, nozzles, etc.
  2. Know the strengths and weaknesses of your hoseloads (i.e. triple stacks are not great for stairs)
  3. Make sure everyone knows their role within the crew
  4. Spread out on the line. Assign Backup FF and Control FF positions w/ additional manpower.  The Backup FF helps the Nozzle FF advance during fire attack.  The Control FF stays at (or near) the point of entry, feeds hose from the exterior and chases kinks.
  5. During the attack and advance on the fire, or whenever necessary, spray the floor ahead of the line to move debris, cool the floor and/or embers and check for “surprises”

These are just a few tips to help keep the line moving and make your attack on the fire a little easier, quicker and safer.  If you have any other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to leave your comments.

Thanks and Be SAFE

Posted in Engine Work, Firefighting Operations, Strategy and Tactics

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3 comments Posted by on August 5, 2010