The 2010 FDIC event is the largest conference and exposition in the fire industry. It includes major equipment manufacturers (hook and ladder trucks, emergency vehicles, extraction equipment) as well as PPE, hoses, breathing apparatus, and promotional products like stuffed Dalmations, toy fire engines, and imprinted t-shirts.
Attendees range from procurement personnel from military bases who are searching for fire equipment to volunteer firefighters who come, some with their families, to meet friends and take training classes. And kick fire engine tires. About 30,000 people are in Indianapolis for the 6-day event.
Probably the most fun part of the show (besides the bagpipers) was the Fashion Show presented by Safety Components. The fashions were made from Safety’s line of fabrics, normally used in turnout outer gear and thermal liners. Safety Components also hosted an evening of music and entertainment with proceeds going to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation.
