Rescue
Chris Wrenn | 01/11/2010

In responses to releases of Chemical Warfare Agent (CWA) there may not be one technology or one “answer” that is correct. The responder must take into account all of the clues present to conclude the presence or absence of CWAs and take appropriate action. Understanding what the clues are and how to layer them to make a decision is critical to successful CWA response.

HazMat
Peter A. Kirk, II | 10/18/2009

The proper tools and equipment are imperative for professionals of all kinds to do their jobs safely and effectively. But the obvious differences are many when comparing pencil pushers to those out in the field who engage in changing and uncertain environments. Hazmat professionals form a unique fraternity of men and women that heavily relies on one of their most essential tools -- their hazmat suits -- for safety and protection.

Kristy Moore | 10/18/2009

As ethanol production and use continues to expand to all parts of the U.S., it is inevitable that most American’s will encounter ethanol in one way or another. There are 196 ethanol production facilities located in the US and today nearly all unleaded gasoline is blended with 10 percent ethanol. Safety is and will always continue to be a top priority for America’s ethanol industry and those who transport and bring ethanol to the marketplace. It is important that those responsible for the safety of their communities are well prepared and trained for responding to ethanol related emergencies.

David Pease | 10/21/2009

For several years now I have gone to the Appalachian mountains with a group from my church on an ASP project to do repairs and construction on houses of those less fortunate. These folks could not otherwise afford to have these repairs done and live with leaking roofs, in dilapidated dwellings, with dangerous wiring, and some with inferior plumbing. The feeling you get from this is a satisfaction that is hard to describe. You come back knowing you made a difference in one family’s life who will never forget what you and your team did for them.

Fire
Lenny Yox | 01/11/2010

If I were to ask you what the main differences are once you are promoted to a position of leadership in your department, what would you say? Some would glibly answer about the color of their helmet, a new radio, a response light in their POV, new keys getting added to their key ring. Far too often the most important answer is overlooked; more responsibility gets piled on.

EMS
BRADLEY DEAN | 10/18/2009

Through the development of technology, pulse oximetry has become a standard vital sign for prehospital providers. Why then do we not pay attention to the data and studies and avoid the use of them on the fire scene or in the monitoring and treatment of burn and smoke inhalation patients?

Education and Training
Joe Mancos | 10/18/2009

"Training is one of the most challenging jobs in all of public safety.” I heard this statement in a class I attended some time ago, and I have thought about it over the years. I have amended that statement made all those years ago in that classroom to say, “Doing training well is one of the most challenging jobs in public safety.”

Communications
Chris Grant | 10/18/2009

(The following is part two of a two part series on your command plan.)

Incident management
The term “Incident Command System” has been used since the mid 1980s. In the 90s we termed it “Incident Management System.” No matter what you call the system you use, there are several functions that must be simultaneously completed. NFPA 1500, Incident Management, 8.1.8

Education and Training
DAVID GREENE | 10/18/2009

Shortly after shift change, as acting Battalion Chief on Thanksgiving morning of 2005, a local television station called inquiring about a house fire that had just occurred hours prior. The reporter asked excitingly, “Did you have a fire last night at 123 Main Street?” I replied, “Yes.” The reporter immediately snapped off eagerly, “Did anyone die?” To which I responded in a monotone voice, just as quickly, “No.” The reporter sighed while letting out a dejected, sad, “Oh,” followed by a slightly more cheery, “Well, have a good Thanksgiving.”

NCAHMR
Glenn Clapp | 10/18/2009

On Aug. 22nd, eight hazardous materials teams from across the State met in Raleigh for fun, fellowship, and competition in the Annual Hazmat Challenge. The Hazmat Challenge is an annual event sponsored by the North Carolina Association of Hazardous Materials Responders (NCAHMR) and is held at the North Carolina Firemen’s Association Conference/ South Atlantic Fire Expo. The 2009 Challenge drew a large number of spectators and featured unprecedented sponsor involvement and prizes for the top finishing teams.