The Gist: The looks on the faces of firefighters Randall “Mouch” McHolland (Christian Stolte) and Joe Cruz (Joe Minoso) and Lieutenant Stella Kidd (Mayo) are a mix of wariness and “Who is this guy?” as Pascal arrives. Wallace Boden (Walker) was a towering presence in all of their lives, professionally and personally, and Pascal is coming into an insular or at least well-seasoned firehouse culture. But the new chief does not hesitate to announce his own ground rules.

Like no phones during meals, for example. (“If you find out something new about each other, I’m happy.”) Or detailed after-action reports from his lieutenants Kidd, Seviride (Kenny) and Herrmann (Eigenberg) that feel more like interrogations. But still, Pascal does prove himself immediately in the field. At the site of a dangerous chemical fire with all kinds of shrapnel popping off, he establishes a defensive perimeter, deploys his people judiciously, and takes no notice of the flames as he personally drags a wounded citizen to safety. “I think he’s missing the fear gene,” remarks paramedic Lyla “Lizzie” Novak (Hudon) to her partner, Paramedic In Charge Violet Mikami (Greensmith).

There are other personal matters in play. Now that firefighter Jack Damon (Michael Bradway) has been revealed as his half-brother, Kelly Severide is leaning into the idea of mentorship. The newly-married Severide and Kidd discuss whether they want kids, while Pascal observes that it’s an official no-no for spouses to even be working the same shift. And though Mikami apologizes to firefighter Sam Carver (Jake Lockett) about scuttling their burgeoning romance, Carver seems preoccupied with a new woman in his life. There’s a lot going on at Firehouse 51. But when that alarm tone sounds – and it always does – it’s time to drop it and suit up. “Cutters and jaws!”