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Lithium-ion batteries are everywhere—from electric vehicles and power tools to phones, vacuums, lawn equipment, and countless devices inside our homes. But what happens when one fails?

In this episode of Playing With Fire, Bryan Spitulski sits down with Captain Richard Birt, a veteran firefighter and expert in lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles, and solar and battery systems. Richard explains what happens during a battery failure, including toxic off-gassing, extreme heat, hydrogen buildup, and the hazards that can remain long after a fire is extinguished.

Bryan and Richard also discuss the growing risks these fires pose to firefighters and fire investigators, contamination of protective gear, and why EV and lithium-ion battery fires require a different approach. They also share practical advice for homeowners on charging, replacement batteries, and understanding the rechargeable devices we use every day.

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Episode 17: Paul Hashagen, A Lifetime of Service

Retired FDNY firefighter Paul Hashagen has spent a lifetime answering the call. Over a 40-year fire service career, Paul served 25 years with the FDNY, including two decades in the legendary Rescue 1 in Manhattan, while also volunteering for the Freeport Fire Department on Long Island, where he rose to Ex-Chief of Department. His career was inspired by his grandfather, an FDNY firefighter who served from 1918 to 1942, and shaped by generations of firefighters who taught him that experience, teamwork, and humility save lives.

In this episode of Playing With Fire, Paul shares unforgettable stories from the front lines, including lessons learned from senior firefighters, the evolution of the FDNY over four decades, and the culture that made Rescue 1 one of the most respected special operations companies in the world.

Paul also reflects on September 11, 2001, when Rescue 1 suffered devastating losses, and discusses how the fire service has carried those sacrifices forward while continuing to train the next generation.

Beyond the fireground, Paul has become one of the fire service's most respected historians, authors, and illustrators. His books, artwork, and storytelling have preserved the traditions and history of firefighting for future generations, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.

Whether you're a firefighter, first responder, or simply fascinated by stories of courage and service, this conversation offers a remarkable look at a career built on dedication, resilience, and giving back.

Connect with Paul Hashagen

🌐 Website: https://www.paulhashagen.com

📚 Fire Books New York (Books): https://ash1312.myshopify.com

📘 Facebook: Paul Hashagen, Author
https://www.facebook.com/paul.hashagen.author

📰 Firehouse Contributor Page:
https://www.firehouse.com/contributors/contact/10253381/paul-hashagen

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Bryan Spitulski delivers a quick reminder that fire extinguishers can save lives, but only if they’re accessible and ready to use. Make sure you have fire extinguishers placed in a few strategic locations throughout your home, that everyone knows where they are, and that they work properly.

#fireextinguisher #firesmart #firesafety

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Bryan Spitulski shares a quick, but vital reminder about the importance of having working smoke alarms in your home, and keeping them properly maintained.

Studio: Playing With Fire Studios, Zoetic Studios

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Playing With Fire
Episode 16: Dr. Dean L. Winslow (Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics & Retired US Air Force Colonel)

Bryan Spitulski has Dr. Dean L. Winslow on the show, to discuss his military career and firsthand experiences with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Dr. Winslow is currently a Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Stanford University and is a Retired Colonel of the United States Air Force.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, remember these vital crisis resources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Veterans Crisis Line, Crisis Text Line, and SAMHSA National Helpline.

Recorded: 03-25-26
Studio: Just Curious Media

Host:
Bryan Spitulski

#playingwithfirepodcast #justcuriousmedia #firesafety #fireprevention #fireprotection #firehazards #fireawareness #firewatch #firefighting #wildfires #firecodecompliance #firefighters #fireinspections #firedevastation

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Playing With Fire
Episode 15: Dr. Sarah-Rae Andreski (Psychologist - Trauma Specialist)

Bryan Spitulski has Dr. Sarah-Rae Andreski on the show, to discuss PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). Dr. Andreski offers evidence-based trauma therapy for veterans, first responders, and those who serve.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, remember these vital crisis resources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Veterans Crisis Line, Crisis Text Line, and SAMHSA National Helpline. For additional guidance, reach out to Dr. Andreski at https://www.drsarahraeandreski.com.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Hermitage Dental Lab in Tennessee.

Recorded: 02-18-26
Studio: Just Curious Media

Host:
Bryan Spitulski

#playingwithfirepodcast #justcuriousmedia #firesafety #fireprevention #fireprotection #firehazards #fireawareness #firewatch #firefighting #wildfires #firecodecompliance #firefighters #fireinspections #firedevastation

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Playing With Fire
Episode 14: Darline Spitulski (Foster Care - Survivor)

Bryan Spitulski has his wife, Darline Spitulski, back on the show to share her compelling story of her survival from being raised in and out of the foster care system and eventually being adopted by a loving family. Darline is now a volunteer and mentor with Sierra Vista Child & Family Services as well as the co-producer and co-host of the Playing With Fire podcast.

Recorded: 01-15-26
Studio: Just Curious Media

Host:
Bryan Spitulski

#playingwithfirepodcast #justcuriousmedia #firesafety #fireprevention #fireprotection #firehazards #fireawareness #firewatch #firefighting #wildfires #firecodecompliance #firefighters #fireinspections #firedevastation

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Playing With Fire
Episode 13: Scott & Laci Peterson (Burnt Van Investigation) - Vol. 02

Bryan Spitulski welcomes Shareen Anderson to the show for a discussion about the Scott & Laci Peterson case.

Laci Peterson of Modesto, California, went missing on December 24, 2002. Her husband, Scott Peterson, was later convicted of her murder on December 25, 2004. Shareen has directed and produced multiple documentaries examining the case—Trial By Fury (2016), The Murder of Laci Peterson (2017) for A&E/Hulu, and Face To Face With Scott Peterson (2024) for Peacock, in which she interviews Scott Peterson in prison. Across these projects, Shareen raises compelling questions about the official investigation.

Bryan’s connection to the case is personal and direct: in the early morning hours of December 25, 2002—one day after Laci disappeared—he was called to investigate a burning van in Modesto’s airport district. To this day, questions remain about whether that van was connected to Laci Peterson’s disappearance.

This episode is Volume 1 of a two-part conversation. Shareen is also an executive producer of the Playing With Fire podcast.

Recorded: 12-18-25
Studio: Just Curious Media

Host:
Bryan Spitulski

#playingwithfirepodcast #justcuriousmedia #firesafety #fireprevention #fireprotection #firehazards #fireawareness #firewatch #firefighting #wildfires #firecodecompliance #firefighters #fireinspections #firedevastation

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www.playingwithfire.net