Modern structure fires demand modern understanding.
Course Description: “The Art of Reading Smoke” equips firefighters and officers to interpret smoke, predict fire behavior, and make intelligent tactical decisions before visible flame. Using real fireground video and current research, attendees develop the ability to become intellectually aggressive — not arbitrarily aggressive. This course was originally developed by Battalion Chief Dave Dodson and is now continued by Chief Backer.
Course Length: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
Course Category: Company Officer Development
About the Instructor: Battalion Chief Rob Backer is an operational leader with deep experience in emergency response, training, and incident command. He is recognized for his ability to translate frontline experience into actionable leadership lessons. Chief Backer emphasizes disciplined command, crew integrity, and performance standards that elevate department culture. His instruction challenges officers to lead with clarity, own their decisions, and build teams that perform consistently when conditions are at their worst.
Battalion Chief Rob Backer