Memorial Day 2019

Simple Saves

Simple things save lives. In a world where there are no guarantees, and in job where we risk life and limb, we often forget that small and simple things make a difference. We pride ourselves on being able to overcome adversity, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Yet often when it comes to training on the mundane, the simple, we object with why don’t we focus on more advanced skills? On one hand I agree. Advanced skills, techniques, and tactics are exciting. They provide new energy and life to our careers. They are important to us to be able to keep up with the current acronyms. But when we loose our focus or dull our senses to the very things that keep us alive. The fancy catch word of the day. The newest of new trends can become a liability. 

For the most part I’m focusing my efforts here on P.P.E. Thats is our personal protective equipment for those not up to date on fire lingo. Wether you are just looking at starting a career in the fire service, or are a veteran of 35 years. It’s still the same. Simple things save lives!

Ok here we go. Your turnouts are your first line of defense. I have seen too many pair in disrepair, too  many that are filthy. Worn gloves, hoods with holes, small scuffs rips or tears in the knees.

Hell I’ve worn some of those myself. I’m not saying get rid of it if its not pristine or like it was the first day you put it in to service. Check it at the beginning of every shift, Check it after each call and after training where you could damage it. 

Your Helmet. Often the helmet is one of the things we take great pride in. We use it to show how much heat we’ve been in. We put up with comfort even when liners can come loose. Dont get me wrong. I love to see a helmet that has history or cool patina. Just make sure its functional serviceable and doesn’t give you some form of cancer. 

SCBA, its our lifeline while we are in IDLH (Immediately dangerous to life and health) atmospheres.

Here is a challenge for you. Next shift go check every SCBA cylinder and see how many are full. Here’s an interesting question. If a firefighter checks their SCBA and it is a 4500 PSI cylinder and it is at 4000 do they go fill it? That 500 PSI means approximately 57 breaths at a normal breathing rate. Can you ever think of a time where that could make a difference? 

Thanks for taking time to read this. I hope that everyone gets to go home. We need to be great at what we do. We need to be masters of the simple so we can stay on top of the next big acronym. Work hard, stay safe, and be great!