International Fire/EMS Safety & Health Week is fast approaching
This year, the National Volunteer Fire Council is joining forces with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to promote "Rules You Can Live By."
The annual observance geared toward preventing injuries and saving lives is June 17-23.
During the week, crews are encouraged to focus on their operations to determine if personnel are prepared to do their jobs safely.
The NVFC is offering two free webinars that week. More information can be obtained here.
Meanwhile, people are encouraged to watch and vote for their favorite safety video. Sponsored by the NFPA, voting will end on June 11, and the winner will be announced on June 12.
If you are into theme parks, Six Flags is offering reduced admissions during that period for first responders. Officials are encouraging responders to take advantage of the opportunity to walk through the various venues.
Crews are asked to delay all non-emergency activities to focus on safety.
"Firefighter survival begins at an individual level," said IAFC President Al Gillespie. "In this job, there will always be factors we can't control; all the more reason for each of us -- from the newest recruit to the most seasoned chief—to make a personal commitment to control the factors we can. Participating in Safety and Health Week demonstrates to our members that the department is going to provide them with the tools and support they need to do that."
A list of activities and resources are available at a special website.
IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section Chair Matt Tobia remarked: "Firefighters die as a result of heart attacks and emergency incident operations. This program brings together the collective energies of two outstanding programs with a clear focus on reducing preventable line-of-duty deaths and injuries."
