Train Like You Fight.
That’s the message being spread in fire and rescue companies around the world this week.
The National Volunteer Fire Council and the International Association of Fire Chief among others have posted a number of suggested topics officers can use to get the discussion started.
Check out suggestions.
While training is essential to make sure crews stay up on their skills, it’s also vital that drills be conducted safely.
Safety advocate Billy Goldfeder suggested fire officers take a look at their SOPs, and adjust accordingly.
He said often firefighters know what their SOPs state, but many admit they don’t follow them. To Goldfeder, that’s unacceptable. If that’s happening, he added that officers need to take steps to change it.
He believes, however, that firefighters have made modifications. But, there are still departments that haven’t embraced change.
“Think about it. Five to 10 years ago, not many were wearing seat belts. A greater number also are donning SCBA while performing overhaul,” he noted, adding that he believes things are changing.
Goldfeder said he would have preferred if safety week was still referred to as a ‘standdown.’
“I think it drew more attention. We were telling people to step back, and take a stand against unsafe practices. But, as long as people are taking the time to set aside time to focus on safety, it's OK..."
Two webinars -- Eliminating LODDs in Fire Service Training and another addressing creating safe training drills -- are slated for this week.
The goals of this year’s safety week are to raise awareness about the importance of training, make sure that all personnel are receiving the training they need, and ensure that safety is a priority in all training activities. Departments are encouraged to use this time to update their training policies and procedures to reflect these goals.
