Fire/EMS Safety Week Underway

The Colorado State Fire Chiefs' Association joins the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Firefighters, the National Fire Protection Association, and other partner organizations to encourage all organizations that provide fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to recognize Fire/EMS Safety, Health and Survival Week during the week of June 22-28, 2008.

Fire/EMS Safety, Health and Survival Week is an opportunity to reflect and act upon some of the more important health and safety issues confronting the nation’s emergency responders. All too often these concerns are overlooked in our effort to provide quality services, and address the day-to-day activities within our organizations.

Areas of Focus
 

This year’s theme emphasizes the need for organizational action that supports and encourages a culture that embraces safety. The areas of focus for 2008 are:

Fully implement NFPA 1500, especially sections addressing PPE:
• Provide compliant PPE.
• Train and enforce use of PPE, including respiratory protection.

Fully implement the Wellness-Fitness Initiative:
• Provide annual medical and physical evaluations.
• Provide equipment and time for exercise.
• Provide nutrition information.

Initiate an emergency vehicle policy, to include:
• Always buckle up.
• Always stop at red lights and stop signs.
• Always drive at speed limits and defensively.

Web Resources
 

CSFCA Resources: www.colofirechiefs.org/resources-ffsafety.htm

IAFC Resources: www.iafc.org/safetyWeek

NFPA Resources: www.fireservicetoday.org

Everyone Goes Home® - Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives

Posted 06-22-08