It's about educating you about what firefighters and EMT's do, and how they do it. The more you know, the better decisions you can make about what direction our Fire district should take.
Check back as I will add more links.
Why We Need To Take the Fire Out of Fire Department
What Firefighters Think About Being Forced to Be EMT's or Paramedic from EMS World
Forced EMS is a killer. Just having to ride the meat wagon as an EMT is bad enough, but here in PG they changed the job title of Firefighter to Emergency Rescue Technician. Upon being hired you have to sign a contract saying you will acquire your Paramedic certification in a certain amount of time which is 3 years I think. This certification has to be obtained on your on time and expense. This has killed recruitment and retention here. They have already lowered the entrance exam score in order to try and attract more people. When they do get a class, by the time it’s time for them to have their Paramedic certification they are leaving for surrounding departments that don’t have this requirement.
PG is now being used as a stepping stone. Get hired by PG, get trained and get some time on the job and head for greener pastures when it’s time to become a Paramedic.
EMS has always been a part of the service but it’s crazy to force people that want to be a firefighter to become Paramedics also.
http://www.firehouse.com/forums/t35852
http://www.emsworld.com/article/10323946/the-redheaded-stepchild-does-ems-belong-in-the-fire-service
My Note: I've known a lot of firefighter paramedics over the years. Some love firefighting, some love EMS, and most are great at one or the other, but not both. When it comes to your life, you really want someone who loves their job, not someone who had to take the test.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
This is a MUST Read Article
http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/nation/ems-day1-cover.htm
Map of LMRFD showing the checker board mess in the Meadview area ... you need Windows with Silverlight to view the map. The Fire District is Shown as Red polygons via a Graphic Drawing
Firefighter Line of Duty Deaths.. When Firefighters Die
As a deputy sheriff we were concerned about officer safety at all times, it seems like firefighters would put safety first.
http://apps.usfa.fema.gov/firefighter-fatalities
http://www.firefighterclosecalls.com
No comments:
Post a Comment