Almost 3,000 civilians die every year in fires. That is still a staggering statistic and one we must do all we can to change. Fires in homes are burning faster than ever before, leaving less time for occupants to safely escape. This fact is the reason we must master the residential search! This class will discuss not only effective and successful search techniques along with victim removal, but we will identify, based on statistics, where victims are most likely to be found. This information will take into account the age of victims and other search profile indicators. We will also learn how to identify priority areas for fast searches based on the search profile to give our victims the best chance at survival based on our initial actions and the speed and efficiency with which we must operate. The days of hanging onto your partner’s boot as you snake your way on the outside walls is over—we must do better for THEM!
Host: Hazelwood Fire Department 6800 Howdershell Road Hazelwood MO
Contact: Amanda Boyer at 314-422-3876 or aaboyer@hazelwoodmo.org
Sessions: January 5 2026 08:30-13:00
Partners: Missouri Division of Fire Safety
Funding provided by the Division of Fire Safety (DFS) and the Missouri Fire Safety Education / Advisory Commission. State Funding sources include the DFS General Revenue (GR) Fire Training Fund and Fire Education Fund.This course is designed to address the violent encounters commonly faced by first responders, including fire and EMS personnel. Participants will learn vital verbal de-escalation skills, effective scene safety protocols, and hands-on techniques to ensure both patient and personnel safety. The course highlights the prevalence of violent encounters in emergency response settings and offers strategies to minimize these risks. Drawing on principles from crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and verbal judo, this training prepares responders to safely manage aggressive or threatening individuals. It includes guidance on documenting violent incidents in compliance with legal standards and applying Missouri’s self-defense laws in the field. The course concludes with a hands-on practical session, emphasizing techniques such as maintaining safe distance, effective escape tactics, and non-violent restraint holds to ensure the safety of all parties involved.