Next Week Dedicated to Safety, Health, Survival
The name has changed, and the events have been extended from one day to an entire week. But, the emphasis is still there stronger than ever.
A multitude of information is available for Fire/EMS Safety, Health and Survival Week, which runs June 22-28.
The effort to focus on the importance of firefighter safety was initiated in 2005 by the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
On June 21, 2005, firefighters were encouraged to "stand down" from non-emergency duties to focus on safety.
The effort still has the same goal -- to reduce the number of firefighter death and injuries.
As of Friday, USFA records show 53 firefighters were killed while performing their duties.
Realizing that emergency personnel are responsible for their future, officials from major organizations joined the cause.
Last year, they decided to include EMS crews in the measure.
In Montgomery County, Md., each station has been sent information for drills or exercises. "Each shift will be doing something," said Battalion Chief John Tippett, who also coordinates the Firefighter Near Miss program for the IAFC.
Tippett will be talking about the program in a podcast that airs on Firehouse.com on Sunday.
In addition, the Near Miss website includes specific section on the week's focused activities.
The National Volunteer Fire Council also is promoting the effort. The organization that promotes programs geared toward healthy, fit lifestyles also is sharing information on its site.
"We're happy to be a partner, and promote the event. We have a lot of resources available," said Maggie Wilson, director of health and safety.
The NVFC also is gearing up for events at FirehouseExpo in Baltimore next month. They will be offering cholesterol, blood pressure and body fat screenings.
In addition, a FDNY firefighter/chef will be cooking up some heart healthy selections.
Another partner, NFPA, will be hosting specific podcasts every day next week.