Get an overview of General Motor’s approach to engineering and testing safe vehicles, with a focus on the new extended range electric vehicle, the Chevy Volt. Plus, see a live extrication of this new vehicle.

“My concern speaks to what is in place for those who suffer either from long term effects from an incident or the root of the problem has nothing to do with an emergency response, as was my situation.”

At Fire-Rescue International last week, the IAFC’s Safety, Health & Survival Section announced several awards. Congratulations toall of the award winners for their efforts in improving firefighter safety and survival!

The IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival Section conducted 2 very full days of pre-conference educational sessions at FRI 2009. This year’s program provided two parallel tracks—one addressing topics related to health, wellness and fitness, and a second directed toward operational safety.

Listen to a brief presentation by Kerry Kuehl, PhD, as he discusses why health and wellness must be a priority for our firefighters and what the economic benefits are to our fire departments.

 Wellness Program: Download

The Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) has approved a total of 43 sessions and workshops at FRI for CEUs towards recertification for ISOs and HSOs.  Click here for a complete listing of approved sessions and workshops.

Attend FRI seminars related to safety, health & wellness issues—it may be the best decision you ever make

When we look at the safety, health and wellness of our firefighters one important thing to examine is the effects of sleep deprivation. Listen to a interview with Kerry Kuehl, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University.

 Standard Podcast [8:16m]: Download

FRI 2009 offers 2 opportunities to learn about near-miss reporting & evaluation

Running a patient who has special needs is not a matter of “if” but “when.” Ignoring the problem creates anxiety for the responder, tension for the patient, and frustration for others on scene including family members and care givers. Ultimately, this could result in poor patient care or undesirable citizen service. A responder who is in this situation may have the best intentions but may not be aware that his or her actions are having an adverse impact on the community.