Bill Kraus

First-Due Truck Company Operations: A Command Perspective

Course Description:

This lecture examines first-due ladder company operations from the perspective of a Battalion Chief. The lecture emphasizes aggressive, effective truck work during the early stages of an incident and highlights what incident commanders expect from ladder companies on the fireground.

It also reinforces the importance of preparation before the tones drop through consistent training, knowledge building, and operational readiness. Well-prepared truck companies are able to perform decisively and effectively from the moment the incident begins:

Gain insight into the chief’s mindset, command priorities, and the critical role ladder companies play in successful fireground operations

Biography:

With over 30 years in the fire service, Bill Kraus retired as a Battalion Chief after a career deeply rooted in truck company operations. Spending much of his time as a Truck Boss, he developed extensive experience in the tactics, leadership, and coordination required for effective truck company performance on the fireground. Passionate about advancing the craft, Bill continues to teach and promote truck company operations, sharing practical lessons drawn from decades of frontline experience.