What does it look like when a fire service treats prevention and response as one mission?

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.

Recorded live at the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) 2025 Conference alongside the AFAC, WAFA, and Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience Conference in Perth, Australia.

Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell of Fire and Rescue New South Wales joins the Smart Firefighting Podcast to share how prevention and response work best when they move together as one mission. He reflects on how the Institution of Fire Engineers shaped his early understanding of fire behavior and why that connection between engineering knowledge and frontline experience keeps firefighters and communities safer.

Jeremy also talks about lithium ion battery risks, current research efforts, and how cross government collaboration is guiding product standards, safe use education, and recycling practices. He discusses the new organizational strategy through 2030 with an emphasis on strong leadership, capable people, and a deeper focus on community risk reduction.

He closes with 2 simple principles that have guided his career: know your job, and value the power of a single supportive conversation.

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

Episode 298: Building Safer Communities Through Fire Engineering and Frontline Experience with Jeremy Fewtrell