Speaker: Brad Elder

Topic: “I looked up and you disappeared in a 20ft wall of fire.”: A Survivor's Tale of Safety and Preparedness

Date & Time: Tuesday, March. 5, 2024, 12pm-1pm SK Time

Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUocOqgqD8jHtYceQinUBs9qQEOmQJn2CtC  

Bio: Brad Elder, a veteran prescribed firefighter with over three decades of experience, has tackled fires across diverse terrains, from the plains of Kansas and Nebraska to the landscapes of West Virginia. His international expertise extends to aiding fire management efforts in Malawi, Zambia, and Canada. At Doane University, Brad’s research lab studies firefighter safety including the effects of low oxygen levels near fires, the impact of boot weight on decision making, and an upcoming study on the flammability of modern fabrics used in underwear.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Brad serves on his local volunteer fire department. It was in that role that Brad was burned over in a wildfire on Oct 23, 2022, suffering third-degree burns on his legs, hand, and face. Following a challenging recovery period of several months in the hospital, Brad returned to the fire department, conducting prescribed fires, and firefighter training.