EMMITSBURG, Md. — The U.S. Fire Administration is partnering on a project with the International Association of Fire Fighters and Drexel University in Philadelphia to research the occurrences and effects of violence against firefighters and EMS responders.
The study will examine the circumstances surrounding these acts and determine ways to mitigate workplace/on-duty incidents of violence against responders. It will also provide examples of current best practices where they exist.
“Firefighters and EMS responders are often called to incidents where they can be exposed to violence,” said U.S. Fire Administrator Ernest Mitchell. “USFA is pleased to work with the IAFF and Drexel University on this this study to provide critical and up-to-date information on how to enhance the safety of firefighters and paramedics in dealing with this violence.”
IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger said they want to better determine how to stop the attacks before they occur and mitigate the physical and psychological effects on firefighters and EMS personnel after the incident.
The initiative also supports USFA’s goal of reducing on-duty firefighter fatalities.