The “art of reading smoke” might sound like it comes from ancient Native American lore, but this term describes a sophisticated system used by trained fire-science professionals to assess danger from a fire and implement appropriate suppression measures. Since modern construction materials and methods continue to change — favoring newer composite substances over traditional woods and metals, for example — the art of reading smoke must also evolve. With the ability to “read smoke” comes the ability to identify what the top priority is when faced with a raging fire — is there a need to conduct a search and rescue, or is the best action to tackle the fire from a certain angle? These questions and more can be answered when the firefighter is trained to read the different types of smoke. Continue reading →

As hurricane season comes around again, natural disasters and preparedness return to the forefront of our minds. Even those in states and regions unaffected by hurricanes, the devastation that hurricanes have wrecked in the past remain prominent in all of our minds. That being said, it’s very important that you consider ways to protect yourself and your family against disaster. Being properly educated and properly prepared for the possibility of a natural disaster is the first mark of a truly intelligent homeowner. But, of course, the entire point of preparedness is thinking about a situation before it is upon you. Come hurricane or tornado season, many of us are prompted to glance over our homeowner’s insurance policy and that’s that. Rather than waiting until the seasons threat is upon you, take the time to educate yourself on natural disasters and disaster insurance options. Continue reading →