Rig Recon Live

Elkhart Brass, FRC, FoamPro, ROM
  • 4.4 (5)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Obsessed with Fire Trucks? We are too! Join us on Rig Recon Live as co-hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier discuss the industry's hottest topics. Featuring the industry's top names, this podcast covers everything apparatus related including new products, spec designs, fire truck tactics, industry headlines, and much more. Make sure you sign up for notifications as new episodes release monthly.

  1. FEB 27

    Ask Why: Smarter Fire Apparatus Choices with Bruce Griffin

    Rig Recon Live hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier are joined by retired Ottawa Fire Captain and Apparatus Consultant Bruce Griffin to discuss why fire departments should challenge apparatus decisions with a clear “why” rather than “that’s how we’ve always done it.” Griffin shares experience designing Ottawa’s fleet, including studies on reflective striping (highlighting wheel wells for vehicle recognition), ergonomics improvements like flip-down cab steps, and compartment lighting choices to preserve night vision. The conversation covers how customization beyond common manufacturer options increases engineering time, cost, and delivery impacts, with an example of an overly customized blitz line compartment that could have been done more simply. Griffin explains how copying features from other departments can fail across different manufacturers and designs, citing issues like recessed handrails, mirror choices, and a medical compartment positioned too high due to chassis venting. They discuss operational tradeoffs such as large tip-mounted aerial floodlights creating dangerous gaps and snag hazards, programming lighting to avoid blinding drivers in fog/snow, disabling backup alarms for neighborhood impact, and situational use of sirens versus “liability” misconceptions. Griffin also explains why “Made in Canada” claims require 51% Canadian content and how Canadian apparatus depends heavily on U.S. components. The episode examines rising apparatus costs through examples like blackout packages costing more on fire trucks due to prep, paint, and warranty, and emphasizes weighing morale/pride benefits against nonessential spend. Griffin closes with top considerations for specifying apparatus: right-sizing the rig for local conditions and water needs, prioritizing parts availability and maintenance support over lowest bid, and ensuring the truck supports efficient fire attack, with an Ottawa firefighter survey example showing how a few negatives can overshadow many improvements. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Blackout Package Costs 01:51 Show Intro Housekeeping 02:43 Meet Bruce Griffin 03:55 Asking Why Matters 05:36 Ottawa Build Lessons 07:14 Visibility Ergonomics Tweaks 09:19 Customization vs Stock 10:22 Night Vision Lighting 11:55 Blitz Line Compartment 15:08 LinkedIn Design Pitfalls 17:21 Recessed Handrail Example 19:40 Spec the Why 20:42 Aerial Tip Light Hazards 22:53 Situational Awareness Codes 23:56 Lighting and Backup Alarms 25:09 Liability Story Setup 25:29 Siren Liability Debate 27:28 Warning Devices Done Right 29:04 Made in Canada Rules 31:18 Why Fire Trucks Cost More 32:21 Blackout Package Costs 35:57 Tank Gauge Spec Choices 37:30 Hose Bed Design Lessons 39:54 Top Three Spec Priorities 45:00 Final Wrap and Thanks More Content - https://rigrecon.com/ Send a text

    47 min

  2. FEB 13

    Tanker Operations with Henry Lovett

    Join hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier on this episode of Rig Recon Live as they discuss efficient tanker operations with water flow expert Henry Lovett. Delve into the challenges and best practices of rural water supply, including optimal setup for dump sites and fill sites, the advantages of utilizing turbo draft devices, and effective ways to maintain continuous water flow during fire operations. Henry shares his insights from decades of experience in both volunteer fire service and the manufacturing side, offering valuable tips on tanker specifications, hose connections, and strategic planning. Don't miss this in-depth conversation aimed at improving your department's water shuttle efficiency. Subscribe and hit the post notifications to stay updated on future episodes! Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping 01:44 Meet Henry Lovett: Water Supply Expert 03:26 Understanding Tanker Shuttles and Water Flow Efficiency 04:36 The Evolution of Tankers: From Milk Trucks to Purpose-Built Vehicles 07:34 Dump Systems: Round vs. Square Dumps 21:34 Optimizing Fill Sites and Mutual Aid Coordination 28:57 Tank Fills and Valve Options 29:52 Ergonomics and Safety in Firefighting 32:23 Efficient Water Shuttle Operations 33:37 Realistic Training for Rural Water Supply 36:02 The Rural Hitch: A Game Changer 45:42 Turbo Draft and High Lift Operations 49:42 Top Three Tips for Efficient Water Shuttle Setup 51:00 Final Thoughts and Wrap Up More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    53 min

  3. JAN 30

    The Art of the War Wagon with Kyle Romagus

    In the Season 3 debut of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier are joined by experienced firefighter Kyle Romagus. With 24 years in the fire service, Kyle shares insights on apparatus design, effective hose management, and the importance of pre-planning for unpredictable fireground conditions. The episode delves into the concept of 'War Wagons' – versatile and well-equipped engine companies ready to tackle any firefighting scenario. Tune in as Kyle discusses the benefits of different types of nozzle setups, the strategic placement of hand tools, and the critical aspects of specifying a fire apparatus. Sponsored by Elkhart Brass, this episode is a must-watch for anyone involved in firefighting and apparatus specification. Don't miss out on practical tips and expert advice to optimize your firefighting strategies. 00:00 Introduction and Pre-Planning Challenges 01:39 Welcome to Rig Recon Live 02:57 Guest Introduction: Kyle Ramus 03:36 Defining the War Wagon 06:18 Attack Lines and Pre-Connects 12:15 Nozzle Preferences and Considerations 16:15 Apparatus Design and Hose Bed Heights 21:43 Hand Tools and Equipment Layout 25:42 Ladder Racks and Equipment Storage 26:13 Balancing Rescue and Firefighting Capabilities 26:50 Challenges in Apparatus Design 27:31 Rapid Deployment and Fast Attack Lines 27:46 The Benefits of the RAM XD 30:14 Deck Guns and Their Operation 32:26 Electric Valves: Pros and Cons 33:26 Behind the Scenes of Brass Tacks Filming 37:56 Top Three Takeaways for Specifying a Vehicle 43:57 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Send a text

    46 min

  4. 12/19/2025

    In the Field with Andy Plofkin: Education, Innovation, and Fire Service Solutions

    In this episode of Rig Recon Live, Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier host Andy Plofkin, Director of North American Regional Sales at Elkhart Brass, to delve into the extensive experience and services offered by the FEI team. Andy shares insights from his 42 years in the fire service and discusses the critical aspects of fire apparatus maintenance, including Know Your Flow classes, LED lighting upgrades, and roll-up door troubleshooting. This episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to upgrade or maintain their fire service equipment. Follow us on social media @RigRecon, and visit rigrecon.com for all the latest apparatus information. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Shoutout 01:36 Meet the Guest: Andy Plotkin 01:54 Andy Plotkin's Fire Service Journey 02:55 Defining Moments in Andy's Career 04:17 Elkhart Brass and Field Team Overview 05:30 Regional Managers and Their Roles 06:38 Equipment and Capabilities of the Field Team 16:46 Know Your Flow: Importance and Execution 24:55 Understanding Hose Pressure and Performance 25:38 LED Lighting Upgrades for Aging Rigs 32:31 Maintenance Tips for Roll-Up Doors 37:01 Foam System Maintenance and Sizing 42:12 Success Stories and Final Thoughts More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    49 min

  5. 12/05/2025

    Hose Loads and Fire Attack Strategies with Brian Brush

    Join Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier in an exciting episode of Rig Recon Live as they discuss the intricacies of fire apparatus specifications with industry legend Brian Brush. This episode covers the importance of rig specs, hose loads, cross lays, and effective deployment strategies. Listen to Brian's insights on the exponential engine model, quick attack high flow lines, and the significance of detailed planning in apparatus design. Perfect for anyone involved in fire service operations, training, and apparatus committee work. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Shoutout 00:27 Introducing the Guest: Brian Brush 00:52 Brian Brush's Background and Experience 02:23 Brass Tacks Hard Facts: Recording Challenges 02:47 Modified Minuteman Load and Cross Lays 03:35 Single Stack vs Double Stack Hose Loads 09:26 Cross Lay Height and Pump House Design 12:18 Plumbing and Hose Load Considerations 16:58 Cheater Hose and Deployment Strategies 21:26 Slide Out Trays and Hose Repacking 24:39 Final Thoughts on Specifying Trucks 26:10 Pistol Grip and Hose Specifications 26:57 Introduction to the Exponential Engine 27:28 Fire Attack Model and Equipment 29:46 Supply Line Strategies 31:57 Quick Attack High Flow Line 32:33 Smooth Bore vs. Fog Nozzles 34:12 Portable Master Streams 42:10 Hose Load and Pre-Connect Package Considerations 46:41 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    51 min

  6. 11/14/2025

    Firetruck Maintenance & Upgrades with Ricky Riley

    Join Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier on this episode of Rig Recon Live as they chat with Ricky Riley, a veteran firefighter with extensive knowledge in fire apparatus. Ricky shares his insights from decades of experience, discussing the importance of apparatus maintenance, the challenges of aging equipment, and the benefits of retrofitting older rigs. The conversation covers various key points, including brake system checks, cooling system care, the implementation of camera systems, and the significance of understanding and maintaining the main components of fire apparatus. Ricky emphasizes the role of daily care for new trucks, the impact of up-to-date lighting and electrical systems, and the necessity for keeping the fleet operational amid long lead times and rising costs. This episode is packed with practical advice for both emergency service veterans and newcomers looking to extend the operational life of their fire apparatus. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Shoutout 01:16 Meet Ricky Riley: A Career in Firefighting 02:36 Challenges in the Fire Apparatus Industry 03:16 NFPA Standards and Their Impact 06:39 Maintaining and Upgrading Older Apparatus 13:04 Parts and Vendor Relationships 17:01 Software and Tracking Maintenance 26:21 Accidents and Safety Concerns 26:43 Technological Innovations in Fire Apparatus 28:07 Scene Lighting Challenges and Solutions 32:38 Importance of Apparatus Maintenance 38:42 Camera Systems in Fire Apparatus 47:01 Key Maintenance and Retrofitting Tips 50:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    52 min

  7. 10/31/2025

    Waterous Wisdom: Navigating Pump Performance and Maintenance

    Welcome to another episode of Rig Recon Live! Hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier dive deep into the world of fire pumps with guests Todd Rogers and Jason Nawrocki from Waterous. They discuss the importance of pump ratings, common issues like cavitation and overheating, and the difference between electric and air primers. The team also highlights the valuable educational tools available through Waterous University and offers practical tips for maintaining and extending the life of your fire pump. If you're involved in an apparatus committee or just keen on fire service tech, you won't want to miss this detailed discussion. Follow us on social media @RigRecon and visit rigrecon.com for more!  Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Shoutout 01:37 Meet the Guests: Todd and Jason from Waters 04:29 Understanding Pump Ratings 08:01 Pump Performance and ISO Ratings 10:12 Heat and Its Impact on Pumps 17:31 Cavitation: The Silent Pump Killer 22:20 Thermal Shock and Anode Protection 27:28 Understanding Corrosion and Anode Placement 28:40 Introduction to Priming Systems 29:20 Electric vs. Air Primers: A Detailed Comparison 35:07 Maintenance Tips for Priming Systems 37:49 Educational Resources at Waters University 43:33 Top Considerations for Purchasing a Pump 47:32 Extending the Life of Your Pump 48:47 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    54 min

  8. 10/17/2025

    Aerials: Mid-Mount vs. Rear-Mount with Eric Wheaton

    In this episode of Rig Recon Live, hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier are joined by Eric Wheaton, an 18-year battalion chief from the City of Winter Park, Florida. The episode dives deep into the intricacies of aerial apparatus setup and operations, focusing on the differences between mid mount vs. rear mount and bucket vs. ladder configurations. Eric shares his vast experience and insights on compartment space, response models, ride heights, and various operational aspects. The discussion also includes valuable tips on apparatus drivability, short jacking, and the pros and cons of various features like dual monitors and lighting setups. Whether you're part of a suburban department or an urban fire company, this episode is packed with essential information for anyone involved in fire apparatus specifications and operations. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Introduction and Social Media Reminder 00:40 Guest Introduction: Eric Wheaton 01:46 Discussion on Aerial Apparatus: Mid Mount vs Rear Mount 06:01 Operational Considerations for Aerial Apparatus 15:43 Compartment Space and Design Considerations 18:01 Ladder vs Bucket: Weighing the Options 23:07 Navigating Tree Coverage with Aerial Devices 23:38 Monitor and Flow Limitations: Dual vs. Single 26:37 Short Jacking and Jack Spread Explained 28:16 Camera Systems and Outrigger Innovations 30:01 Operational Considerations: Bucket vs. Ladder 37:35 Lighting and Additional Features on Aerial Devices 39:51 Final Insights and Summary More - https://rigrecon.com/podcast/ Send a text

    47 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.4
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Obsessed with Fire Trucks? We are too! Join us on Rig Recon Live as co-hosts Bruce Quick and Jason Witmier discuss the industry's hottest topics. Featuring the industry's top names, this podcast covers everything apparatus related including new products, spec designs, fire truck tactics, industry headlines, and much more. Make sure you sign up for notifications as new episodes release monthly.

Information

  • Creator
    Elkhart Brass, FRC, FoamPro, ROM
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Rig Recon Live
  • Show Website
    Rig Recon Live

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