By FireRescue1 Staff
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Equipment and planning needs for extreme weather emergencies and natural disasters have been outlined in a report for fire departments by the USFA.
The document released Tuesday examines the impact of severe weather and natural disasters on the fire service and the types of service calls most likely to arise as a result of them.
“Firefighters continue to be called upon to respond to many types of incidents, disasters, and situations – in all kinds of weather, day and night,” U.S. Fire Administrator Greg Cade said. “Our country’s fire service is an amazing cadre of specially trained individuals whom the public relies on during emergencies – including extreme weather and natural disasters. This requires all firefighters to be prepared to respond in the most challenging conditions.”
The report, “Fire Department Preparedness for Extreme Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters,” also addresses safety, mutual aid, shift management, resource identification, logistics, and other related issues, and includes case studies.
It provides information fire departments can use to enhance their level of preparedness and ensure greater safety the next time disaster strikes, Cade said.
The report has been released ahead of the nation’s “Preparedness Month” in September.
Related Resources: Read the USFA’s report: Fire Department Preparedness for Extreme Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters (PDF) |