Firefighters are the first responders to emergencies such as fires, car, train, or airplane crashes, or medical emergencies. They're typically the first service personnel to arrive on the scene. The responsibilities of firefighters may vary by emergency type and firefighter training, but most firefighters have similar responsibilities.
First Responders
Firefighters are on-call 24/7 and can quickly travel to the scene of an emergency, notes John Rose of Oak Bluffs. They typically drive a fire truck or another emergency vehicle or ride along with others to the scene. If the emergency occurs in a remote place, some firefighters are trained to parachute from a helicopter to a safer area near the emergency location. They then quickly collect supplies and gear and use navigational tools, such as a map or global positioning unit, to determine their exact position and the location of the emergency.
Rescue Personnel
Firefighters can also rescue people or pets that are in danger. For example, it's common for a firefighter to enter a burning building or break into a vehicle. A firefighter has to carry a person out of harm's way over their shoulder or on a spinal board with the help of other emergency service personnel.
Helicopter retrieval is sometimes necessary in isolated locations. It's a firefighter's job to make sure a person is prepared to be lifted out of the area with a harness. John Rose of Oak Bluffs adds that part of a firefighter's first responder responsibilities includes rescuing people and pets and treating them for smoke inhalation, burns, and other injuries while waiting for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to arrive.
Multi-Taskers
Upon arrival at the scene of the emergency, a firefighter must quickly assess the situation or wait for instructions from dispatch or superior officers, notes John Rose from Oak Bluffs. At the scene of a house fire, for instance, they can assist with opening a locked house or garage. They also have to set up ladders, knock down a wall or window to create an entrance, or remove debris blocking the entrance. Additionally, firefighters help put out fires by spraying high-pressure water or fire-suppression foam to the burning area or structure.
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Emergency
Medical Assistance
According
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, firefighters respond to more medical
emergencies than fires. Firefighters have to offer basic care and first aid,
whatever the type of scene. For instance, they need to secure, comfort, and
reassure injured individuals until an ambulance arrives. If necessary,
firefighters have to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If a firefighter
has paramedic or EMT certification, they may provide basic emergency treatment.
Firefighters may bandage wounds, clear airways, monitor vital signs, or give
intravenous fluids or medicines, adds John Rose of Oak Bluffs.
With certifications including Fire Prevention Officer and Fire Officer 1, John Rose of Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, demonstrates a strong commitment to public safety. In his free time, he enjoys golf, fishing, hiking, skiing, and bike riding, embracing both community dedication and an adventurous spirit. For more on John Rose and his commitment to Oak Bluffs and positively impacting the lives of its residents, click here.
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