References For Developing Basic Communication Skills
Effective and efficient radio communication requires that all wildland firefighters have a solid foundation in basic communications. The following references pertain to basic communication skills.
Basic Communication
- Mind Tools – Communication Skills - Web page has various links regarding improving communication skills
Active Listening
- The Art of Active Listening - Aging I&R/A Tips, National Aging Information & Referral Support Center
- Mind Tools on Active Listening
Online Courses
- Effective Communication (IS-242) Emergency Management Institute - This 8-hour self-study course is designed to improve your communication skills. It addresses basic communication skills, how to communicate in an emergency, how to identify community-specific communication issues, using technology as a communication tool, effective oral communication, and how to prepare an oral presentation.
Articles and Publications Related to Radio Communication and Discipline
The following articles and publications pertain to radio communication and the importance of radio discipline during fire operations.
- A Failure to Communicate, Ken Frederick and Mike Tuominen, Public Safety Communications, August 2010
- Confusion in the World of Wildland Fire Radio Communications, Pam McDonald, "Let's Talk Training" newsletter, Spring 2010
- Current Status, Knowledge Gaps, and Research Needs Pertaining to Firefighter Radio Communications Systems, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/TriData Corporation, September 2003
- Effective and Efficient Communication with Aerial Resources, Gil Dustin, Air Tactical Program Manager, BLM NAO, "Let's Talk Training" newsletter, Spring 2010
- Firefighter Safety and Radio Communication, Curt Varone, Fire Engineering
- Radio Discipline and the Fireground Radio Channel, Jim McCormack, Fire Nuggets, November-December 2009
- Radio Silence, William L. Pessemier, Fire Chief, June 2005
- Special Report: Improving Firefighter Communications, Adam Thiel and Hollis Stambaugh, U.S. Fire Administration/Technical Report Series, USFA-TR-099, January 1999
- Tune In to Radio Discipline (pamphlet), National Interagency Incident Communications Division
- Voice Radio Communications Guide for the Fire Service, U.S. Fire Administration/International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), October 2008
