In addition to fighting fires, firefighters have a variety of duties. These include equipment inventory and check-ups. Inventory checks ensure the firefighters’ gear is in good condition for the next job. These activities help run the department.
Firefighting
Firefighters must undergo constant training to maintain their skills, like Daniel Ahasic, an experienced firefighter. They need to know how to handle new equipment and stay abreast of changes in protocols and policies. To properly fight fires, they also need to be able to put in long hours of effort.
The first step in firefighting is to locate the fire source. The aim is to control the fire and prevent its spread. Firefighters use ladder trucks, pumper trucks, and fire hoses. The equipment used by firefighters is very extensive and requires constant training.
Technical rescue
Technical rescue is one of the things firefighters do to save lives. These rescue operations may not always have a happy ending. Sometimes, a rescue operation turns into a recovery operation. Whatever the case, you’ll need to be calm under pressure and have a solid skill set.
Technical rescue teams often work on highly complex cases and require specialized equipment and skills. These tasks include vehicle extrication, rope rescue, trench rescue, structural collapse rescue, and water rescue. They also may be called on to perform wilderness rescue missions. In some cases, technical recovery requires a specialized team of firefighters with specialized training.
Hazmat
When an emergency calls firefighters to respond to hazardous materials, they may have to use specialized equipment and clothing. They must understand how to confine the items and eliminate them effectively. These elements may impact the extent and length of an emergency response. Firefighters should plan their reaction area and work with other authorities to prepare for a hazmat situation.
Hazmat training is provided to firefighters to help them meet OSHA and EPA standards. Fortunately, most departments now train their firefighters to deal with hazmat incidents. They can then approach an incident defensively and conduct operations to contain and control the situation. They can also call a HAZMAT team to assist in managing a hazardous materials incident.
Auto extrication
Auto extrication is one of the many tasks firefighters are trained to perform, which involves working with the power unit to break free of the car and remove the vehicle. After the car is removed from the patient, the firefighters will transfer the patient to an ambulance for further treatment.
The procedure of extracting a stuck patient from a car without cutting any internal organs is known as auto extrication. This process includes assessing the patient, performing a treatment, and removing the patient from the vehicle. Extrication units are equipped with several tools and equipment to complete the process. In some cases, firefighters can use only a “pop” technique to remove the door, but in others, they need to step aside to let heavy rescue teams and medical staff into the scene.
Safe houses
Safe houses are a vital part of firefighting, as they help prevent the spread of fire and other emergencies. These programs are now available throughout Los Angeles County. They provide temporary safe houses for children and adults in threatening situations. In addition to providing a haven, these organizations can provide descriptions of emergency vehicles and emergency medical response. They can also assist children who are in the initial state of fear.
Surrender sites
Surrender sites are places where an unwed parent can safely give up a baby. These sites can be outside a fire station, inside a fire station, or even inside a firehouse. These places are safe and anonymous. There are no charges for putting a child in one of these locations.
Surrender sites are one of the things that firefighters do to help women and men decide to surrender their children. They are not just there to save the lives of those in distress but also to protect other people. Firefighters are trained to save innocent lives and have the tools to keep them. They practice various techniques, and many can use the Jaws of Life to free people trapped in cars. Another good practice is to use a Safe Surrender site, which allows people to safely give up unwanted babies without fear of harm to themselves.
Compassion
One of the essential characteristics of a firefighter is compassion. This quality is necessary because firefighters often have to support the people they encounter during a fire emotionally. For example, a firefighter may need to reassure a distraught parent during a house fire. In addition, a firefighter may be called in to calm a crowd of people.
Compassion fatigue can lead to reduced sleep, irritability, and decreased attention. Firefighters may also be at risk for compassion fatigue due to the lack of sleep they get at home. Fortunately, there are some things firefighters can do to avoid compassion fatigue.