Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors

03/26/2026

HazMat Tactical Tip - Establish a Collapse Zone Under the Tailgate.

There are three common CNG garbage truck fire scenarios including a trash/cargo fire, vehicle fire (with the CNG cylinders not involved), and a fire involving the CNG cylinders.

When conducting offensive operations at a trash/cargo fire involving in a front loading trash truck with a rear tailgate, one tactical option is to raise/force the tailgate to access the seat of the fire. In some cases, a heavy wrecker or front end loader is used.

When operating near the rear of the truck with the tailgate raised, establish a collapse zone under the tailgate. The tailgate weighs over 1,000 lbs and could swing closed suddenly, crushing responder(s).

If the situation permits, consider having the driver dump the trash out in a safe location.

Email [email protected] if you're interested in CNG vehicle response training or our new HazMat Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (HazMat TTPs) course which includes the ER Playbook App for your team.

Photo by ER Playbook

10/23/2025

Our brother, Huntley Fire Fighters Union IAFF Local 4106 Bryan Szymczak, is continuing his courageous battle against ALS. He is seeking the most advanced treatment options available. Unfortunately, many of these treatments are not covered by insurance and are being paid for out-of-pocket by Bryan and his incredibly supportive family.

Over the past two years, Bryan and his family have generously donated all proceeds from their Swing for Shimmer golf outing to the Les Turner ALS Foundation. They also established a scholarship for local college students pursuing a career in the fire service. This is a family that truly gives back.

To support Bryan and raise ALS awareness, his family has launched a t-shirt campaign. Proceeds will help cover the high costs of his medical care. Please consider purchasing apparel or making a donation. The link is listed below.

https://4106-als-awareness-2025.itemorder.com/shop/home/

10/22/2025

EPA Releases Lithium-Ion Battery Response Guide
https://www.firefighterclosecalls.com/epa-releases-lithium-ion-battery-response-guide/

10/14/2025

The Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors is offering two Chief Fire Officer Courses in Elgin and Bloomington. Don't miss your chance for this great opportunity! Visit ilfireinstructors.org to learn more and register.

08/28/2025

https://www.ilfireinstructors.org/class-offerings d

Don't forget to sign up for the annual conference!

The Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors is organized to create Fire Service Leaders through training, education, and professional development.

07/31/2025

07/28/2025

The Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors Annual Conference is coming up September 24-26 in East Peoria. Visit ilfireinstructors.org to register for the conference.

05/22/2025

05/08/2025