NIOSH: Alcohol a Factor in Ohio LODD
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NIOSH investigators have determined that alcohol was again a factor in the death of a firefighter who perished in 2008.
Following a probe, they found that Richard L. Kear, of Pitt Township, Ohio Fire Dept., had a blood alcohol level above the state intoxication limit of .08.
They did not release the blood alcohol level in the report released late last week.
Investigators also noted that Kear, 58, was not wearing a seat belt, and was ejected from the vehicle as it rolled. His passenger also was not buckled up.
Police determined the fire truck rolled at least twice, and Kear was ejected through the windshield, and landed about 10 feet away.
The fire department had a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy as well as a requirement that everyone wear seat belts. The victim had signed a form indicating that he understood the SOPs.
NIOSH investigators also noted the effects alcohol consumption has on the body, and ability to drive. They said Kear incorrectly judged the passing clearance when the fire truck approached the farm tractor with an implement. He also overcorrected while trying to gain control of the vehicle.
Kear was not among those honored last month at the National Fallen Firefighters' Memorial Service in Maryland.
This was the second time in a few weeks that NIOSH has listed alcohol as a factor in a firefighter death.
They determined that a Rhode Island firefighter who drowned while assisting with a recovery effort had a blood alcohol level three times the limit of intoxication.