LINK LOCKER
Video resources for motivation, inspiration, and education. Curated by Fireground Co.
FDNY Rescue-3 | NatGeo 1991
Quick Summary: A 1991 documentary riding along with FDNY Rescue-3 “Big Blue” in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx.
Fireground Co. says: We post a lot of these — and it never gets old. Listening to the brothers talk about the job strikes a nerve in every firefighter. It might stir longing, it might spark frustration, but it makes you want to be better.
Rescue 3 | Part 2
Quick Summary: Part two in the 1985 series following Rescue 3.
Fireground Co. says: The first three minutes alone are worth it. The Rescue guys have a way of communicating that’s quick, clean, and sharp. And their take on why a sense of humor matters in the firehouse? Pure gold.
Rescue 3 | Part 1
Quick Summary: A deep look into the treasured culture of FDNY’s Rescue 3.
Fireground Co. says: A great snapshot of firehouse humor, trust in the department, and love of the job. “When the civilians are in trouble, they call the fire department. When the firefighters are in trouble, they call the Rescue.”
The Death of Police Culture
Quick Summary: A powerful reflection on how modern reforms risk eroding the soul of policing. This video defends time-honored traditions — like rookie pranks and dry sarcasm — not as hazing, but as tools of wisdom, resilience, and mentorship.
Fireground Co. says: Not every fence needs to be torn down. This one hits hard for anyone who's seen the soul of a profession eroded by people who don’t understand why the culture was there in the first place. Don't let the fact this was made for police fool you...it's good.
Detours: Detroit-area firefighters battle a plague of arson
Quick Summary: Limited budgets and crumbling infrastructure haven’t stopped Detroit firefighters from risking it all to battle the relentless wave of arsons plaguing their city.
Fireground Co. says: Listening to these guys talk about their attitude toward the job — and watching them work — is a masterclass in grit. One of the best modern pieces about the job’s real soul.
9/11: The FDNY | 60 Minutes
Quick Summary: On September 11, 2001, 343 members of the Fire Department of New York made the ultimate sacrifice. This special from 60 Minutes honors the courage and legacy of those heroes.
Fireground Co. says: 9/11 was a defining moment for the fire department — not just for FDNY, but for every firefighter in the nation. This piece captures the gravity, loss, and brotherhood of that day.
BURN
Quick Summary: From executive producer Denis Leary, BURN is a powerful documentary about the Detroit Fire Department — one of the busiest, most overworked, and under-resourced departments in the nation.
Fireground Co. says: Everyone in the fire department talks about Detroit. This film shows you why. Raw, real, and relentless. A must-watch for anyone who’s ever pulled a line.
The Fire Next Door
Quick Summary: In this award-winning documentary, Bill Moyers takes a breathtaking look at the arson and crime that nearly destroyed the Bronx in the 1970s.
Fireground Co. says: The Bronx during the 1970s was one of the most landmark and formative eras in the history of firefighting. The arson epidemic had the brothers in FDNY during the time running sometimes up to 30 working fires a DAY. It was a dramatic and terrible era for the city of New York, and our country. But it also became a defining period in the history of firefighting that every firefighter across the nation should be familiar with. This documentary is a great way to learn about this difficult, but important time.
Gettin’ Salty Podcast | Vincent Dunn, FDNY Deputy Chief
Quick Summary: Special guest Vincent Dunn appears on the Gettin’ Salty Experience Podcast. Vincent Dunn is a decorated member of FDNY and one of the greatest voices in fire department leadership and education.
Fireground Co. says: Vincent Dunn is a legend. Period. His contributions to the FDNY and the Fire Department at large are countless. The man and his thoughts NEED to be in your mental rolodex. Listen to this episode of Gettin’ Salty for a great interview with Chief Dunn…then make sure to check out his books.
Gettin’ Salty Podcast | Kevin Shea, FDNY Rescue 1 Lt.
Quick Summary: The Gettin’ Salty Experience Podcast interview Lt. Kevin Shea, FDNY Rescue 1. He was involved in one of the most daring roof rope rescues in FDNY history and responded to the first WTC bombing.
Fireground Co. says: The brothers at the Gettin' Salty Experience are back at it again, interviewing Lt. (ret) Kevin Shea. You should know about Lt. Shea. His calm demeanor and confidence carried him through an incredible rope rescue and a legendary career.
Gettin’ Salty Podcast | Paul Hashagen, “The Living Legend”
Quick Summary: An episode from the Gettin’ Salty Experience Podcast that features Paul Hashagen of the FDNY. Paul became a member of Rescue 1 FDNY in 1983 where he spent the next 20 years. Paul has also served as Chief of the Freeport N.Y. Fire Department. Paul is one of the most decorated firefighters to ever work in the FDNY.
Fireground Co. says: The brothers at the Gettin’ Salty Experience Podcast do a great job of interviewing Paul Hashagen. “Hollywood Hashagen” is one of the legends of the fire department you should know about. Listen to this podcast episode…and you’ll know why.
Welcome to the City | City of Miami FD
Quick Summary: Lieutenant J. Almeida welcoming the new recruits to the City of Miami Fire Department.
Fireground Co. says: This is a classic. “This ain’t for everyone.” We need this more than ever today. We need this standard. We need harsh truths, real talk and tough love. We need to expect more.
Welcome to Your First Day in the Fire Academy | Chief Lasky
Quick Summary: A powerful speech delivered to recruits on their first day at the fire academy. It covers the gravity of the job, the character it demands, and the honor of wearing the badge. With raw passion and clarity, the speaker lays out what it really means to serve — not as a profession, but as a calling. If you’ve forgotten what this job is about… this will remind you.
Fireground Co. says: This is the kind of message that used to echo through the halls of every fire academy in the country. No fluff. No apologies. Just a hard reset on what it means to do this job. If you're a probie, you need to hear this. If you're ten years in and getting soft, you need it even more. If you are running a recruit school…you need it the most.
A Culture of Extinguishment | Ray McCormack
Quick Summary: In 2009, FDNY Lieutenant Ray McCormack delivered a keynote at FDIC International that became one of the most discussed speeches in fire service history. Titled “A Culture of Extinguishment,” McCormack challenged prevailing safety paradigms, advocating for a renewed focus on aggressive fire suppression tactics to better serve communities and protect firefighters.
Fireground Co. says: This is pure HELL YEAH. Ray McCormack is a legend. The contents of this speech resonates like a sonic boom in the halls of Fireground Co. HQ. The importance of aggressive fire attack, effective tactics over shallow safety standards and the role of leadership in shaping fire department culture. This is a MUST WATCH
Comfort is the Enemy of Growth | Aaron Fields
Quick Summary: Aaron Fields (Seattle FD) addresses the crowd at 2019 FDIC during the opening ceremonies.
Fireground Co. says: If you’re a firefighter (especially Engine guys) and haven’t heard of Aaron Fields…you’re doing it wrong. This speech is a taste of classic Aaron Fields. We’ve learned a lot about engine ops and hose work from Aaron and his energy and character always have a unique way of bringing us back to the heart of the job.
Firehouse | FDNY, Part 3/3
Quick Summary: Filmed in 1991, this film follows Rescue 1 in New York. Includes members that eventually made the ultimate sacrifice during 9/11.
Fireground Co. says: This is one of our favorites at Fireground Co. HQ. The raw spirit of these guys is contagious. Real firemen’s firemen. The variety and volume of squad work during this time is fascinating. This is a real-deal rescue squad. Pay attention to the firefighter IQ of these guys. Pay attention to their proficiency. Pay attention to the culture.
Firehouse | FDNY, Part 2/3
Quick Summary: Filmed in 1991, this film follows Rescue 1 in New York. Includes members that eventually made the ultimate sacrifice during 9/11.
Fireground Co. says: This is one of our favorites at Fireground Co. HQ. The raw spirit of these guys is contagious. Real firemen’s firemen. The variety and volume of squad work during this time is fascinating. This is a real-deal rescue squad. Pay attention to their proficiency. Pay attention to the culture. (*Special note to all you “Longevity Boys”* Check out the guy havin’ a slice and rippin’ a cig after his workout. That ones for you.)
Firehouse | FDNY, Part 1/3
Quick Summary: Filmed in 1991, this film follows Rescue 1 in New York. Includes members that eventually made the ultimate sacrifice during 9/11.
Fireground Co. says: This is one of our favorites at Fireground Co. HQ. The raw spirit of these guys is contagious. Real firemen’s firemen. The variety and volume of squad work during this time is fascinating. This is a real-deal rescue squad. Pay attention to the firefighter IQ of these guys. Pay attention to their proficiency. Pay attention to the culture.
Firefighter | Boston Fire, Part 3/3
Quick Summary: Follow Boston Firefighters from Engine-52 and Ladder-29 circa-1997. Great insider access to Boston FD.
Fireground Co. says: Boston firemen doing the job — dragging hose, venting roofs and chasing heat. It’s raw, honest, and full of lessons. Watch this one all the way through. The 90’s were awesome. Boston FD is awesome. It’s win win.
Firefighter | Boston Fire, Part 2/3
Quick Summary: Follow Boston Firefighters from Engine-52 and Ladder-29 circa-1997. Great insider access to Boston FD.
Fireground Co. says: Boston firemen doing the job — dragging hose, venting roofs and chasing heat. It’s raw, honest, and full of lessons. Watch this one all the way through. The 90’s were awesome. Boston FD is awesome. It’s win win.
Firefighter | Boston Fire, Part 1/3
Quick Summary: Follow Boston Firefighters from Engine-52 and Ladder-29 circa-1997. Great insider access to Boston FD.
Fireground Co. says: Boston firemen doing the job — dragging hose, venting roofs and chasing heat. It’s raw, honest, and full of lessons. Watch this one all the way through. The 90’s were awesome. Boston FD is awesome. It’s win win.
Volunteers | Part 2
Quick Summary: Hose Co.#3 of the Baldwin Fire Department around 1979. Hear commentary from legendary Baldwin Firefighters, and see them in action.
Fireground Co. says: This one is for the volunteers but any firefighter should take note of the humility and passion these guys bring to the job. Also. The throwback aesthetic is…so…good. You’ll want to throw on a leather helmet and crack a flat-top beer with a church key.
Volunteers | Part 1
Quick Summary: Hose Co.#3 of the Baldwin Fire Department around 1979. Hear commentary from legendary Baldwin Firefighters, and see them in action.
Fireground Co. says: This one is for the volunteers but any firefighter should take note of the humility and passion these guys bring to the job. Also. The throwback aesthetic is…so…good. You’ll want to throw on a leather helmet and crack a flat-top beer with a church key.
Vintage Firefighter Footage | 1960’s
Quick Summary: Classic fire department training film made during the 1960’s
Fireground Co. says: 3/4 boots, long coats, sideburns and film grain. Just the look of this is enough to get you fired up for your next shift. Aside from that, a great window into the challenges we have faced in the past.
Chief: The Story of Bill Feehan
Quick Summary: The Story of the Oldest & Highest-Ranking Firefighter Killed on 9/11, William M. Feehan. Includes archival interview footage with Chief Feehan, the first FDNY member to hold every rank in the department.
Fireground Co. says: Chief William Feehan held every rank in the FDNY — from Probie to Commissioner. He knew the job inside and out, and he never stopped showing up. On 9/11, at age 71, he was still on scene, still leading from the front. Take the time to learn about this man. This is what it looks like to give everything for the job — and carry it with grace.
Multiple Victims House Fire | Claymont, DE
Quick Summary: Located in Northern Delaware, Claymont is an aggressive company running 1500 calls a year. Engine | Tower | Rescue and Special Operations team. This video shows the removal of a victim from a house fire by Tower 13, 7 minutes after arrival.
Fireground Co. says: Victim removal isn’t as a simple as training videos in perfect visibility, in sanitary training houses, would lead you to believe. Here’s a good video that captures what it really looks like. No fireground theatrics.
22nd Ave. Mayday Event | Sacramento FD
Quick Summary: This video explores the events of January 12, 2015 when two Sacramento Firefighters were sent through the floor of a house into the fire they were fighting. They fell into the basement, trapped.
Fireground Co. says: We review this one often as a reminder of how quickly the complexion of a fire scene can change and the challenging reality of mayday events. A great training tool for RIT and Mayday…also a solid gut check.
Boyd Street
Quick Summary: Recounts the 2020 Toy District Fire that injured eleven Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) members. This documentary tells the story of the day of the incident, and the recovery period and departmental self-assessment that followed.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from this one. Take the time to watch the whole thing.
Vintage Probationary Firefighter Training
Quick Summary: Vintage Hartford Fire Department probationary firefighter training film.
Fireground Co. says: Much of the films narration still applies. Some of the tactics are based on the needs of pre-SCBA fire department, But the framework of solid firefighting tactics and probie training are still in tact.
Vintage FDNY | New York Fire Department in Action
Quick Summary: This educational fire safety film produced under Mayor Robert Wagner (1954-1965) gives an overview of the chain of command, and how the fire department responded to fires at that time.
Fireground Co. says: “Seconds count where the race against death already has started, with death having the head start.” If that quote isn’t enough to get you going…the detailed exploration of vintage FDNY definitely will.
Company Response | Vintage LAFD Training Film, Part 2
Quick Summary: A vintage internal training film from LAFD, Company Response (Part 2) covers responding to and positioning for emergencies.
Fireground Co. says: So much has changed…so much hasn’t. Knowledge of your first due, heads-up positioning, water-supply…they were talking about getting this stuff right even in the 1940’s. We’re still talking about it. Watch and discover how they talked about it in simpler times.
Company Response | Vintage LAFD Training Film, Part 1
Quick Summary: A vintage internal training film from LAFD, Company Response (Part 1) covers responding to emergencies.
Fireground Co. says: A glorious glimpse into the past. LAFD internal training on incident response. The speech at the beginning alone is worth the watch.
Non-Fiction: 1950’s TV Show on LAFD Training
Quick Summary: Another vintage gem from 1950’s, this TV show explores training and equipment in the LAFD circa 1950.
Fireground Co. says: We’re suckers for anything old-school, vintage and fire department related. This is a fun look at training and equipment from a bygone era…complete with campy interviews and retro TV vibes.
The Story of a Firefighter | LAFD Classic
Quick Summary: This black-and-white documentary follows Alan Evenson, a young fireman aspiring to become a Captain in the Los Angeles Fire Department. A rare glimpse into the discipline, pride, and simplicity of fire service life in the 1950s.
Fireground Co. says: The job has changed — radios, rigs, tactics. But we can always use rugged, wholesome men like Alan Evenson. They built the Fire Department with grit, humility, and heart. Not only a fun look at a nostalgic piece, but a window into our bloodline.
FDNY Rescue 3 | Vintage Footage
Quick Summary: Footage of Rescue 3 in FDNY, in 1991. Station scenes, receiving alarms, responding, and working at numerous fires in the Bronx and Manhattan.
Fireground Co. says: Good ol’ fashioned vintage FDNY footage both in the firehouse and on the fireground.
FDNY: Brothers in Battle
Quick Summary: A vintage look at the FDNY during the 1990s, showcasing the department's operations and the camaraderie among firefighters during a bustling era of the city's history.
Fireground Co. says: If the old school vibe of this vintage production doesn’t get you amped up…the old school firehouse culture and foreground heroics will.
Brotherhood: Life in the FDNY
Quick Summary: This gritty mini-doc offers a rare glimpse into the mindset, pride, and bonds that define life inside the FDNY. Raw stories. Real tradition.
Fireground Co. says: You don’t fake brotherhood — you earn it. In a job like this, the guy beside you is the only thing more important than the fire in front of you.
120 Years on Watkins Street
Quick Summary: A legacy piece on one of FDNY’s most storied firehouses.
Fireground Co. says: 120 years of service doesn’t happen by accident. This piece reminds you that tradition isn’t nostalgia — it’s identity.
Welcome to the FDNY ROCK, Part 4
Quick Summary: A look inside the FDNY Fire Academy.
Fireground Co. says: A rare, inside look at one of the Fire Departments most famed recruit schools. If you plan on leading a recruit school…pay attention.
Welcome to the FDNY ROCK, Part 3
Quick Summary: A look inside the FDNY Fire Academy.
Fireground Co. says: A rare, inside look at one of the Fire Departments most famed recruit schools. If you plan on leading a recruit school…pay attention.
Welcome to the FDNY ROCK, Part 2
Quick Summary: A look inside the FDNY Fire Academy.
Fireground Co. says: A rare, inside look at one of the Fire Departments most famed recruit schools. If you plan on leading a recruit school…pay attention.
Welcome to the FDNY ROCK, Part 1
Quick Summary: A look inside the FDNY Fire Academy.
Fireground Co. says: A rare, inside look at one of the Fire Departments most famed recruit schools. If you plan on leading a recruit school…pay attention.
Life at the House of Pain - Part 7
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was a coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 6
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was a coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 5
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was a coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 4
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was a coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 3
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 2
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
Life at the House of Pain - Part 1
Quick Summary: Multi-part documentary on DC’s House of Pain in 1997. Engine Co. 10 and Truck Co. 13.
Fireground Co. says: There is a lot to learn from some of the busiest companies in the country. The House of Pain was coveted assignment. This documentary shows what it really means to be “busy.”
The History of the Box Alarm (Friendship Fire Museum Tour)
Quick Summary: Take a walk through fire service history as the Friendship Fire Association gives a behind-the-scenes tour of D.C.’s Fire Museum — including a deep dive into box alarms.
Fireground Co. says: Before apps, maps, and CAD, there was the Box. This is where the culture came from — and why it’s worth remembering.
High School Fitness (1962)
Quick Summary: A glimpse into 1960s high school physical education, showcasing the era's approach to student fitness and discipline.
Fireground Co. says: This vintage footage offers insight into the foundational fitness routines that emphasized discipline and physical readiness—principles still relevant in today's training environments.
Ted Lasso’s Guide to Making People Look Up To You
Quick Summary: What a fictional coach can teach you about real-world leadership.
Fireground Co. says: Ted’s not your typical boss — and that’s exactly the point. A masterclass in human-centered leadership.
The Bronx is Burning (1974)
Quick Summary: Raw footage from the South Bronx war years. Aggressive fires. Gritty conditions.
Fireground Co. says: This is what the job used to look like. Grit and heart. Every firefighter should see this once.