The Tucson (Ariz.) Fire Department and IAFF Local 479 worked together to create a multifaceted program for this year’s IAFC/IAFF Safety, Health and Survival Week.

In a joint memo to department personnel, Chief Patrick Kelly and Capt. Roger S. Tamietti, president of Local 479 wrote: “We encourage all of you to focus on what you personally can do to manage risk and enhance your health and safety. This year’s theme reflects the need for personal responsibility and accountability within a strong safety culture.”

Targeted areas under the “Fit for Duty” theme include survival procedures, general health and wellness, stress management, alcohol and drug abuse, and suicide prevention.

“These topics will be stressed at the station level through online training programs, flyers, Internet article reviews and hands-on survival training programs — all aimed at ensuring everyone goes home,” Kelly said.

In addition, Tucson personnel are encouraged to access the University of Arizona’s MRSA Training Tool, which the department recognizes for continuing-education credit.

Meanwhile the Ponderosa (Texas) Volunteer Fire Department will extend safety week by a few days, holding its annual Safety Night on Monday, June 28. Chief Fred Windisch wanted to accommodate as many members as possible for one event.

“The theme of this year’s Safety Stand Down is health and fitness as it relates to being fit for duty, so I’m going to engage someone to discuss fitness, exercise and healthy eating,” he said.

Windham polled the officers in the department for suggestions on safety issues to be addressed and plans to include a presentation on the IAFC’s 10 Rules Engagement for Structural Firefighting.

As an added incentive to participating members, Windisch said they would have door prizes and encourage members to lead discussions on the subject of their choice. “We give them prizes for doing that, too,” he said.

Related Links:

• WellAmerican.net
• IAFC's Safety Week page