By FireRescue1 Staff
BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — NIOSH is emphasizing medical evaluations and cardiovascular health after a Maryland firefighter died from heart complications.
Baltimore County firefighter Jarrett Dixon died January 9, 2008, three days after reporting chest pain while exercising at the fire station, according to a fatality investigation report released Thursday.
He was evaluated by a paramedic at the station after exercising and taken to a local hospital, where medical tests revealed no significant coronary artery disease.
After spending two days at the hospital, he was released home, but collapsed and died a day later.
The autopsy found blood clots from the victim's legs had traveled to his lungs, where they blocked blood circulation.
Several clots were found throughout his pulmonary circulation.
Investigators conclude the fire department likely could not have prevented the death, as the victim was "reportedly in very good health and exercised regularly" and genetic factors increased his chances for developing blood clots.
As a result, the report lists two recommendations to address general health and safety issues facing the fire department and the fire service in general:
• Provide mandatory annual medical evaluations to all fire fighters consistent with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments
• Develop a comprehensive wellness/fitness program for fire fighters to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular (CVD) and improve cardiovascular capacity
