Playing With Fire
Playing With Fire is a gripping podcast hosted by Bryan Spitulski—a former firefighter turned fire investigator—who brings a frontline perspective to the world of fire. From the chaos of first response to the quiet resilience of recovery, Bryan takes listeners deep into the personal and professional realities of firefighting and fire investigation.
Through candid conversations with firefighters, paramedics, investigators, scientists, and—most importantly—survivors of some of the most devastating fires in recent history, the podcast explores how fire transforms lives, departments, neighborhoods, and entire communities.
Listeners will hear firsthand from those who lost everything, those who fought to save what they could, and those rebuilding from the ashes. Each episode unpacks the emotional toll, systemic challenges, and acts of heroism that emerge in the wake of disaster.
With compassion, insight, and unflinching honesty, Playing With Fire shines a light on stories that need to be told—stories of loss, hope, innovation, accountability, and the enduring human spirit.
Playing With Fire
Richard Birt Fire Investigator and Educator
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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.
www.playingwithfire.net
People on this episode
Bryan Spitulski
Host
Darline Spitulski
Co-host
Jason Connell
Producer
Jessica Xanthe Cran
Producer
Shareen Anderson
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