The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset

In this episode of The Command Post, Hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka take a meaningful look at the essential tools of firefighting, their care, and the knowledge behind them. From the iconic halligan’s origins in the FDNY to evolving equipment like hydraulic “rabbit” tools, they discuss how tradition meets innovation in emergency response.
The hosts also emphasize leadership’s role in maintaining gear, sharing candid stories about tool maintenance reflecting company culture. They stress how new firefighters must be mentored—learning not only to wield tools but to respect their purpose and history. The discussion also highlights the critical importance of incorporating frontline feedback in apparatus design and tool mounting for greater efficiency.