Forum
Initiative 1 - Training and Certification
A. What kind of generational gaps can we find in training and education?
B. How do these compare to the geographical gaps that can exist?
C. What benefits exist with standard training and continuing education?
Initiative 2- Medical and Physical Fitness
1. Defend the need for annual medical evaluations and the establishment of physical fitness criteria for emergency services personnel throughout their careers.
2. Read the case study below and answer the following questions:
A. What level of physical conditioning does it take to complete the tasks of a firefighter?
B. What is expected of you in this situation, and what is expected of your lieutenant?
Case Study 1
1. Generational gaps exist because of the increasing level of competition in the field. While older generations might have had some traditional training, that might include something like an academy, newer generations of firefighters often come in with several certifications, possibly even a degree in fire science.
2. Geographical gaps exist because there is no "federal standard". After training, departments tend to vary on what they require of their firefighters. It's my opinion that this is not always the worst thing, though. Different area's require different trainings or certifications, since they are dealing with different issues. For example, a department in a large city (such as maybe NYC) versus a department in rural Iowa are not going to be dealing with completely different terrains, populations, structures, etc. Training for fighting brush fires versus large buildings might be necessary for a rural department as opposed to a big city department.
3. Standard training ensures that everyone has the basic idea of what and how to function on a scene. This is particularly useful when it comes to interdepartmental assistance (mutual aid). Continuing education is also extremely important in the fire service. It is extremely necessary to grow with the service. As we continue to improve in equipment and safety, it's important for fire fighters to keep current in effort to do the job in the most effective, and safest way possible
Case Study 2
1. It takes excellent physical fitness to be able to perform at peak level as a fire fighter. It's important to have the strength to be able to carry victims as needed, carry heavy tools over distances, move up and down stairs (often while carrying a person or tools). It's also important to have endurance. Scenes can continue for hours, and being able to work for long periods of time without placing too much stress on the body is imperative for fire fighter safety.
2. I think that the expectation here is probably to make sure that the LT is ok. Even in EMS my partner's safety and well being comes before the patient/victim. First, make sure he is going to be able to come out. If he is unable to assist in carrying the victim, I would ask that he drag the hose out with him, and have him walk in front, to make sure that he doesn't drop and get left behind. Sometimes even the most physically fit of folks can have some sort of underlying issue one day that might flare up, causing a medical event during a fire or other scene.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.