June 2015 – The Stayton Fire District will participate in the 2015 International Fire/EMS Safety and Health Week from June 14-20. Safety and Health Week is a joint initiative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and is supported by a network of emergency service, health and safety organizations.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, 97 firefighters died in the line of duty in 2013 and 65,880 were injured. In addition to the dangers responders face when fighting a fire, managing traffic at an incident scene and other operational duties, they are also at increased risk for health issues including heart attack and cancer.
Safety and Health Week is an annual event that aims to improve firefighter safety and health to give all a better chance of survival during emergencies and in the long-term. Fire departments across the world will take time during the week to increase awareness and action so that safety and health become a priority in all fire departments.
The theme for Safety and Health Week this year is “Creating a Culture of Safety.” This theme focuses on what can be done to improve safety in three specific areas to create an overall culture of safety for the fire and emergency services:
- In the community, by promoting fire prevention and risk reduction strategies to prevent fires and other emergencies.
- In the department, by strengthening standard operating procedures that re-enforce safety and creating department health and wellness programs.
- For the individual, by encouraging firefighters and EMS providers to take personal responsibility for their safety and health.
The Stayton Fire District provides critical, life-saving services to the communities of Elkhorn, Marion, Mehama and Stayton and responds to all types of emergencies and disasters. The department is made up of about 60 responders that protect 14,500 people over an area of 107 square miles. Reducing the risks that first responders face and making sure that each responder is ready when the call comes in is a priority for the fire district.
Safety and Health Week provides a time for all department members to focus on the safety and health measures they need to take both on and off duty to make sure they stay strong and ready to serve the community at a moment’s notice. Community members can also do their part by following recommended fire prevention practices, makings sure they have working smoke alarms, and supporting key safety legislation. By working together to create a culture of safety, there will be less fatalities, injuries, and illnesses, and we will have a stronger fire service overall.
The Stayton Fire District asks for community awareness and support of its safety and health initiatives. For more information, please contact Chief Jack Carriger or visit www.SafetyAndHealthWeek.org.
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs Safety, Health and Survival Section
The IAFC (www.iafc.org) represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders. Learn more about the IAFC SHSS at www.iafcsafety.org.
About the National Volunteer Fire Council
The NVFC is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides invaluable resources, programs, training and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org.
