SAM BOOST turns challenges into opportunities for smarter, safer firefighting.
FDIC 2025 Examines the Future of a Changing Industry
Earlier this month, thousands of firefighting professionals and other industry experts gathered in Indianapolis for FDIC International to discover what the future holds for a dynamic, changing industry. Attendance this year broke records with more than 37,000 participating in the events and festivities.
Between the financial challenges facing both big cities and small towns nationwide and recruitment issues, firefighting isn’t what it was just a decade ago. In the coming years, firefighting will continue to evolve. FDIC is the largest conference dedicated to the firefighting community, helping firefighters address those challenges and become more effective in serving their communities. The IDEX Fire & Safety team is embracing the opportunity to bring innovation to an industry that is amid a transition.
Passing the Baton, Preparing the Next Generation
Without question, technology continues to play a large role in pretty much all aspects of our lives—firefighting is proving to be no different. The role technology will play in firefighting was on full display over the course of the three-day event. As wildfires and other natural disasters become more frequent, having a strong pipeline of firefighters will be critical. Because our environment is changing, the approach to firefighting also will have to adapt.
With Baby Boomers continuing to retire at a fast pace, the next generation of firefighters and leaders will need to be prepared to take on what is next for the industry. Captain Brian Nigro of Hernando County Fire Rescue in Florida is an early adopter of SAM BOOST. SAM and SAM BOOST help streamline the firefighting process, allowing everyone who is on the scene of a fire to be more efficient, regardless of their role.
Nigro demonstrated how the technology worked and explained that it has proven to be a game changer for his entire team. While most fire departments face challenges when adapting to change, everyone quickly came on board once they saw the benefits that the technology can bring. For his department, SAM has saved time while also maintaining safety.
Like many in his age group, Nigro admitted that retirement isn’t that far away. As he prepares to pass the baton, he knows that ensuring everyone is ready to embrace technology will be vital to the department’s success. Nigro realizes that someone in their 20’s is going to be more willing to work in an industry where technology is front and center. The technology and innovation that IDEX Fire & Safety is providing is helping Millennials and Gen Z get more excited about what this career path will now look like. For him and many other fire chiefs, technology like SAM is one of the best ways to engage young people.
The SAM Challenge
As firefighters continue to learn more about the functionality of SAM, the SAM Challenge served as the perfect opportunity to discover more about the technology and put their skills utilizing the tool to the test. With Nigro leading the challenge, firefighters were able to track their time on a traditional pumper versus SAM to put out the fire. For many in attendance, this was their first time experiencing SAM. Most participants came away impressed with the difference that technology can make when they are on the scene of a fire.
David Mellen, a Battalion Chief with the Reno Township Fire Department and Battalion Chief of Leavenworth County Fire District #2 is another SAM adopter. His main priority is ensuring his crews have everything they need to be successful. His engine played a large role in demonstrating the efficiency of SAM during FDIC.
“The biggest test came when our Engine 21 was brought to FDIC 2025 and used as the primary pump apparatus for multiple vendors in the outside exhibit. Every discharge was pumped, with multiple lines broken down with gated wyes, flowing different tip pressures, all while dealing with fluctuating intake pressures. The SAM pump system KILLED IT! Not only did the SAM manage all of the lines flawlessly and with little to no noticeable changes to the nozzle firefighters, it was all accomplished with the operator free to monitor the pump and perform other tasks,” he said.
“As attendees passed by the apparatus, they were amazed to see the SAM pump system successfully managing multiple lines, prioritizing flow to the nozzles, and protecting the pump all at the same time. Most noticeable was the amount of times we overheard people saying that even their most experienced operators would struggle with that many lines in service.
“After two consecutive 8 hour days and hundreds of thousands of gallons pumped, any remaining reservation for our personnel on whether the SAM pump could handle extreme duty was gone. We couldn’t be happier with our decision to purchase the SAM pump system and the abilities it will give our personnel while serving our community,” said Mellen.
1. Reduce Human Error at the Pump
SAM BOOST Manages the Pump
SAM BOOST works behind the scenes to simplify processes that traditionally require meticulous attention.
- When the truck is placed into gear, SAM BOOST initiates the essential step of recirculating water from the tank to the pump, eliminating a step that is easy to miss and can save valuable seconds.
- Fire crews can reduce errors by having pressure control and visibility of tank levels directly on the SAM Smart Nozzle.
SAM BOOST streamlines the pumping process, saving time, simplifying decision-making, and reducing errors. By helping prevent common human errors, SAM BOOST serves as a leveling tool, allowing even the newest firefighters to confidently support the crew, minimizing the steep learning curve and reducing mistakes that could lead to delays.
Embracing Technology
The IDEX Fire & Safety team was proud to kick off FDIC by premiering the video, The Best Damn Job. Tribute to Bobby Halton and Calling of the Next Generation. The video showcased the power of integrating technology into firefighting. It was developed in partnership with Qwake Technologies. As firefighting continues to evolve, the two teams are working to help empower firefighters by applying the appropriate technologies in their work on the fireground. The video not only highlighted the much-needed differences technology is making to a changing industry but also paid tribute to Bobby Halton who helped build FDIC into the largest fire service educational conference in the world. Halton believed recruiting the next generation is vital to the firefighting industry sustaining itself.
IDEX Fire & Safety Premiered New Products
Attendees were also able to get up close and personal with the innovative technology and products that IDEX Fire & Safety is bringing to the industry. IDEX Fire & Safety announced the launch of several new products at FDIC. The new products were on display and readily available for attendees to test for themselves.
Between the SAM Smart Nozzle 2.0 and FireLink enabled by Captium on display, there were multiple ways for firefighters to embrace new technology. Many firefighters are aware that the scope of their job is changing. Learning about and utilizing technology is the only way to adapt and move forward in an industry that is clearly changing.
IDEX Fire & Safety’s overall innovative approach to designing technology has worked to extend information and control to critical points of decision-making on the fireground and rescue scene. For example, the SAM Smart Nozzle puts data in the nozzle operator’s hands and Captium enables crews to track their truck performance, playing a vital role in ensuring firefighters are always prepared.
As several new products were announced at FDIC, attendees were invited to be a part of a scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt allowed them to learn about and experience the benefits of each piece of technology. Participants visited IDEX Fire & Safety booths to experience the SAM Challenge, the SAM XR Experience, and FireLink enabled by Captium. The hunt also took them to partner booths to learn more about how these partnerships strengthen the industry, including HME and Innotex.
At the conclusion of each day, Jason Patton from Fire Department Coffee announced the scavenger hunt winners – with a grand prize of a kit of new HURST S 120E Minicutters!
1. Reduce Human Error at the Pump
SAM BOOST Manages the Pump
SAM BOOST works behind the scenes to simplify processes that traditionally require meticulous attention.
- When the truck is placed into gear, SAM BOOST initiates the essential step of recirculating water from the tank to the pump, eliminating a step that is easy to miss and can save valuable seconds.
- Fire crews can reduce errors by having pressure control and visibility of tank levels directly on the SAM Smart Nozzle.
SAM BOOST streamlines the pumping process, saving time, simplifying decision-making, and reducing errors. By helping prevent common human errors, SAM BOOST serves as a leveling tool, allowing even the newest firefighters to confidently support the crew, minimizing the steep learning curve and reducing mistakes that could lead to delays.
The Jaws of Life Live Car Cutting
Members of the IDEX Fire & Safety team provided a live car cutting demonstration of the Jaws of Life. The audience saw multiple scenarios of how the technology can be used with safety and efficiency top of mind. Innotex, Team Wendy and ESS provided the necessary gear to ensure the team was safe throughout the process.
Additionally, members of the HURST team proudly premiered the S 120E Minicutter, tactical tools, and safety cushions during FDIC.
Ready for Anything, Providing Hands-on Training
In partnership with Catapult, IDEX Fire & Safety brought real-life experiences to firefighters. The XR experience allowed conference participants to experience operating the SAM Smart Nozzle at the scene of a fire. Attendees overwhelmingly agreed that the experience felt very real, and others were impressed by the demonstration of the technology. “That was so realistic! Is the SAM Nozzle really that easy to use?”
According to Robyn Simpson, the CEO and Co-Founder of Catapult, this type of lifesaving training is 100% necessary for both firefighters and the public that they serve. Because traditional firefighter training is often dangerous and expensive, XR training has proven to be a great option. Simpson also explained that XR training is beneficial because of its accuracy and the overall level of detail. It serves to trick the brain by allowing the participant to have an experiential learning moment that helps form their muscle memory that is crucial to safety. XR training is ideal to help firefighters become familiar with new technology in a friendly environment.
Firefighting of the Future with Trusted Solutions and Lifesaving Technology
IDEX Fire & Safety is committed to providing firefighters with data at critical decision points to help them not only be effective in their role but also ensure everyone’s safety. With technology like SAM, the SAM Smart Nozzle, HURST rescue tools, and Firelink enabled by Captium, the future of the industry is bright, more connected, and safer for crews and communities. We look forward to seeing you next year at FDIC 2026!
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Experience firsthand how SAM BOOST can empower your department to meet the challenges of modern firefighting head-on. Let’s work together to make your fireground safer and more effective.
IDEX Fire & Safety Premiered New Products
Attendees were also able to get up close and personal with the innovative technology and products that IDEX Fire & Safety is bringing to the industry. IDEX Fire & Safety announced the launch of several new products at FDIC. The new products were on display and readily available for attendees to test for themselves.
Between the SAM Smart Nozzle 2.0 and FireLink enabled by Captium on display, there were multiple ways for firefighters to embrace new technology. Many firefighters are aware that the scope of their job is changing. Learning about and utilizing technology is the only way to adapt and move forward in an industry that is clearly changing.
IDEX Fire & Safety’s overall innovative approach to designing technology has worked to extend information and control to critical points of decision-making on the fireground and rescue scene. For example, the SAM Smart Nozzle puts data in the nozzle operator’s hands and Captium enables crews to track their truck performance, playing a vital role in ensuring firefighters are always prepared.
As several new products were announced at FDIC, attendees were invited to be a part of a scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt allowed them to learn about and experience the benefits of each piece of technology. Participants visited IDEX Fire & Safety booths to experience the SAM Challenge, the SAM XR Experience, and FireLink enabled by Captium. The hunt also took them to partner booths to learn more about how these partnerships strengthen the industry, including HME and Innotex.
At the conclusion of each day, Jason Patton from Fire Department Coffee announced the scavenger hunt winners – with a grand prize of a kit of new HURST S 120E Minicutters!
SAM BOOST Supports Decision-Making
SAM BOOST relieves the pump operator of some of the manual, repetitive tasks, supporting critical decision-making steps for operations on a stressful, fast-paced fireground.
For example, as soon as the truck is in pump gear, SAM BOOST takes over and opens the electric tank-to-pump valve, ensuring water is circulating. This eliminates one of the first steps and can effectively double the work output within the first few minutes on scene. Having indicators on the Smart Nozzle offers real-time feedback on water levels, removing the guesswork, reducing misreading of gauges, and empowering the crew with more control over their operations.
4. Navigate Pressure Control Issues
Controlling nozzle pressure is critical. Too high, and firefighters risk being exhausted or injured from excessive force. Too low, and the hose can kink, slowing water flow and reducing fire suppression effectiveness. Maintaining consistent pressure, especially across varying elevations, can be difficult and is often another factor prone to error.
SAM BOOST Controls Pressures
SAM BOOST maintains a steady, precise pressure at the nozzle, giving firefighters a more manageable and safer water flow. The Smart Nozzle communicates directly with the BOOST governor, which manages the discharge valve settings and automatically compensates for pressure changes from factors like elevation or hose length.
SAM BOOST’s technology maintains the correct water pressure (up to 300 feet of pre-connected hose) with minor manual adjustment. By allowing the operator to set a discharge pressure at the start, SAM BOOST regulates the pressure throughout the response, enabling the team to focus on extinguishing the fire rather than manually adjusting the pressure.
5. Manage Friction Loss
Friction loss is a subtle but crucial factor affecting water delivery efficiency, especially with larger flows or extended hose lengths. Understanding the impact of hose packages, nozzle size, and truck plumbing can be challenging, yet all are factors in maintaining pressure and delivering water where needed. Mismanagement of pressure due to friction loss can reduce firefighting effectiveness and even compromise safety.
SAM BOOST Adjusts for Friction Loss
SAM BOOST incorporates technology that manages friction loss by adjusting the pressure at the valve in real time based on nozzle requirements. The SAM Smart Nozzle’s built-in pressure sensor communicates any low-pressure readings to the governor, which then automatically increases pressure at the valve to counteract any kinks or drops.
This ensures water flow remains uninterrupted, even under challenging conditions or in extended hose deployments. Firefighters can stay focused on their mission instead of being distracted by troubleshooting line issues.
SAM BOOST: Enhancing Safety and Efficiency in Every Response
At Akron Brass, we prioritize designing equipment that simplifies the fireground experience without compromising safety or efficiency. SAM BOOST was developed to bridge the gap between traditional, hands-on pump control and the demands of modern firefighting. By eliminating cumbersome manual steps and streamlining pressure management, SAM BOOST becomes a key asset in reducing operator errors, improving water flow reliability, and creating a more responsive environment for new and seasoned firefighters.
As a retrofittable system, SAM BOOST offers a practical solution for existing fleets, delivering an impactful technological BOOST without the cost of full system overhauls. With its efficient, user-friendly design, SAM BOOST levels the playing field, equipping even the newest team members with technology they can rely on to perform confidently under pressure. Here’s a recap of how SAM BOOST addresses challenges on the fireground:
- Human Error Reduction: By handling the several pump operation steps automatically, SAM BOOST minimizes potential mistakes, allowing all firefighters to operate effectively, regardless of experience level.
- Independent Line Charging: Crews can charge their lines directly, ensuring water availability without relying on a pump operator’s timing.
- Automated Water Recirculation: SAM BOOST takes over when the truck is set to pump gear, ensuring water is flowing and ready for immediate use.
- Precise Pressure Management: SAM BOOST regulates pressure at the nozzle to ensure safe and adequate water delivery, enhancing the team’s stamina and safety.
- Friction Loss Control: The Smart Nozzle sensors communicate any pressure drop due to friction loss, enabling SAM BOOST to compensate automatically, keeping water flow consistent.
