The Nest — #femalefirefighter

For these six men and women, fitness is a calling, a lifestyle, a sport, and a survival strategy. Learn from people who risk their lives to protect ours. 1. ARMED FOR BATTLE: OFFICER DANIEL BANKS As Officer Daniel Banks tells it, every bar in America is littered with guys who think they're MMA fighters because they watch it on TV while sucking down beers. But the police chief in Tripoli, Iowa, knows all too well that not every adversary is a big-talking wannabe. He takes no one for granted. "Many prison inmates weight train two or three times per day, 365...

By Lorraine Hutchinson The year 2012 was the best of times and it was the worst of times for me. In May 2012, after graduating from National University, it seemed that my busy life           would slow down and I could catch my breath. In addition to going to school I was             managing the Logistics Division of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. As the           Deputy Chief of that Division, it was my responsibility to manage the process of               purchasing,...

Firefighter fitness success depends on our attitude, personal accountability, and action.  But when it comes to working out, we all know that the most common barrier is lack of motivation.  Nearly every firefighter agrees that being fit for duty is a fundamental requirement of the job.  Although it would appear that this core tenet of firefighting would be enough motivation to make our fitness a priority, reality says otherwise.   Wherever you are in your fitness journey, all of us will experience times when we just feel like sitting on the couch and watching T.V. instead of exercising.  So, how...

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Cooking has long been and continues to be the most common cause of home structure fires and home fire-related injuries. Whether preparing for a family dinner or a quick snack, practicing safe cooking behaviors can help keep you and your family safe. Never leave your range or cooktop unattended while cooking. If you have to leave the room, turn your range or cooktop off. Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves. Loose clothing can hang down onto hot surfaces and can catch fire if it comes in contact with a gas flame or electric burner. Keep your cooking area clean...