Michigan Fire Chief Talks About Injured Firefighter; Dept. Very Emotional After Almost Losing Member

Chief Martin says everyone involved is affected. Thinking back, he says this is the most serious situation his staff has had to deal with in years.

Feb. 23, 2005

2 min read

A Lansing firefighter is still in the hospital in critical conditionfollowing Monday's house fire on the city's north side. F ellow firefighters are still coping with rescuing and treating 1 of their own.

Lieutenant Marie Rosicky is still at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor recovering from her burns. While her physical condition is the main concern of the department, fellow firefighters are also dealing with the emotional aftermath of the fire. The fire started in the basement, burning hot and spreading quickly.

Greg Martin, Lansing Fire Chief: "The fire had burned so hot, it caused the 1st floor to partially collapse. Lt. Rosicky stepped in it."

With her partner holding onto her, Lt. Marie Rosicky waited for help.

Greg Martin: "F or those folks dealing with that traumatic situation, time stands still, probably felt like hours, but within minutes they had her out of there."

Fire Chief Greg Martin says while the outcome is tragic, it could have been a lot worse. He says Rosicky is alive thanks to the work of her fellow firefighters who fought to save 1 of their own.

Greg Martin: "I think the firefighter just has to turn that emotion off for a minute and do their job, and work the patient and do their best to save that life, then afterward you can turn that emotion back on."

While the emotional wounds will take time to heal, Chief Martin says his firefighters are most concerned with Rosicky's recovery. Someone from the department has been at the hospital around the clock since the fire.

Greg Martin: "She has a wonderful support system.. She's married to a retired Lansing Fire Department captain, so the family is aware of the job and the risks associated with it."

But when the risks become reality, Chief Martin says everyone involved is affected. Thinking back, he says this is the most serious situation his staff has had to deal with in years.

Greg Martin: "T his brings that fact home, we're proud of our safety record, but 1 injury like this is too many."

Chief Martin tells us the department did call in a crisis team to help the firefighters who responded to the scene. As for the cause of the fire, it's still under investigation. Officials know it started in the basement, but it's still unclear what caused it.