Episode 259: The Importance of Training and Sense-Making in Firefighting Decision-Making with Dr. Greg Penney

Episode • Jan 30 • 21m

What is sense-making, and how can it transform firefighters’ decision-making?

Hello Smart Firefighting Community!

Welcome to another episode of covering real world innovations via interviews with fire service and technology industry experts that empower YOU to develop your very own Smart Firefighting strategy!

In this episode:

The importance of training and sense-making for effective decision-making in the fire service
Research on moral injury and its impact on the mental well-being of firefighters
The Institute of Fire Engineers' role in bridging the gap between fire engineers and firefighters

Hear from Dr. Greg Penney who is part of Natural Hazards Research Australia’s Education and Training Committee.

Dr. Penney shares his journey into the world of wildfire engineering, inspired by his personal experience during a life-threatening fire. He discusses the critical role of training and sense-making in helping firefighters make sound decisions under pressure, emphasizing the need to interpret complex information quickly.

Dr. Penney also dives into his research on moral injury in the fire service, exploring how these challenges impact the mental well-being of responders. He highlights the efforts of the Institute of Fire Engineers (IFE) in fostering collaboration and education between fire engineers and firefighters. The conversation wraps up with Dr. Penney's reflections on the pride and satisfaction he feels in giving back to the next generation of firefighters.

So take a listen to hear what he has to share!

Episode Resources:

AFAC25 Conference

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