North Metro Fire Rescue District’s Post

I didn’t want to be someone who just thinks about extreme weather. When working on insurance and wildfire at the systems level, I was feeling too far from what happens on the ground—how will I help when something actually does happen? As Juliette Kayyem said in my crisis management class, “It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.” So, as soon as I got back from grad school, I started looking for ways to gain more tactical skills so I can be an asset at the community level👷♀️ Most big cities have FEMA curriculum led Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs). https://lnkd.in/gwk2Uhcg In Portland, we have one of the biggest in the country called Neighborhood Emergency Teams (NET) and I just finished 30 hours of training to volunteer deploy and support emergency services in the face of disasters. 🧯Fire safety ⛑️ search and rescue 🩹triage 🚑 first aid 🔧 utility shut off, and importantly 🫂 psychological support of victims are all elements. It brushes the surface of what expert first responders do, but I built community and skills that took away some of the fear and distance from the problem and turned it into empowerment and connection. Every little bit of forethought matters and I believe in the people-power we build together. You can find a similar program near you if you’re interested! https://lnkd.in/g9EPwgZ2 #disasterpreparedness #extremeweather #climateinsurance

We’ve made significant improvements to our emergency response capabilities in Burnaby – and planning a full-scale emergency exercise is the next important step to ensure Burnaby residents, businesses and visitors are safe in our community. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gb_deVNj Investments the City has already made to enhance our emergency response capacities and capabilities, include: ✅ Replacing Fire Station 4 with a new station in northeast Burnaby on Greystone Drive. ☑️ Adding a new fire station, Fire Station 8, on Burnaby Mountain on University Drive between Nelson Way and Tower Road, slated to open in 2024. ✅ Equipping Fire Stations 4 and 8 with specialized wildfire firefighting equipment and personnel, such as ATVs and large-scale deployable sprinkler systems. ☑️ Investing in a public alerting system, Alertable, which is used by the City to issue notifications to subscribers about emergencies impacting Burnaby and information about evacuation orders, where to go for support during an emergency and additional information about potential threats to public safety. Visit Burnaby.ca/Alertable to sign up. ✅ Assessing and identifying potential routes, assembly areas, and places of respite should the evacuation of an area be necessary. ☑️ Investing in Emergency Support Services (ESS) equipment, supplies and ESS responder training to sustain response capacity in our growing community. ✅ Advancing City personnel training in emergency management systems including the incident command system, emergency support services, damage assessment, and emergency operations centre.

𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲: First, a new analysis of the August inferno describes heroic efforts by firefighters. But it also finds many ways the town could have been better prepared. The second report is a detailed timeline of events. The Western Fire Chiefs Association, which conducted the fire department’s After-Action-investigation, identifies 17 specific challenges faced by the department – including poorly stocked fire engines, a lack of mutual aid agreements between Hawaii counties, and limited equipment – and makes 111 recommendations aimed at preventing similar disasters in the future. The report recommended that the department use new technology that can monitor locations for areas of potential fire danger, and position firefighters and equipment in areas most at risk. Special thanks to both Bob Roper and Kim Zagaris for their dedicated efforts on the Western Fire Chiefs Association's report. Hawaiߵi state officials released the Lahaina Fire Comprehensive Timeline Report, which is the first phase of an independent analysis conducted by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes. The report chronologically details the major events and response efforts related to the catastrophic fire that struck Lahaina, HI, on August 8–9, 2023. 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿-𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁: 𝗠𝗮𝘂𝗶 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀: https://lnkd.in/gFvSPKng 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 (𝗙𝗦𝗥𝗜): 𝗟𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁: https://lnkd.in/gQ4ZwQiT #wildfire Paul Hessburg Christopher Anthony Bob Horton Dave Winnacker Frank Frievalt O.P. Almaraz Michael Thayer, CWMS Kate Dargan Marquis Hussam Mahmoud Curtis E. Alling, AICP Kim Zagaris Kelly Martin Daniel Berlant Genevieve Biggs Anukool Lakhina Bob Horton Evrim Bunn Anthony Schultz Frank Bigelow Wade White Dave Winnacker Kenneth Dueker Alexandra Dunya Syphard Sashi Sabaratnam Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell Parastou Najaf, PhD Robert Kowalski Debra Deininger Kevin Conant Andrea Santy

Residents on “SET” Status due to Hillside Fire YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona. – The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) is working closely with the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) and the other fire agencies involved with the Hillside Fire near Congress, Arizona. At this time, YCSO has put zones YCU-2450, YCU-2396, and YCU-2444 in the pre-evacuation SET status. SET means there is significant danger in your area. You should be prepared to leave if told to do so by evacuating authorities. You can be prepared by gathering essential supplies for you and those in your care, including pets and family members: prescriptions, important papers, priceless items, and personal items. Consideration should be given to any unique needs that you and your family have, or the special equipment your pets or livestock may require. Stay aware of the latest news and information from public safety officials and reputable sources. Please be advised that fire apparatus and emergency vehicles are actively operating in the area. We urge all residents and travelers to ensure roads are kept clear for these vehicles to maneuver. Exercise caution when driving, and do not obstruct the path of emergency responders. Your cooperation is crucial in allowing them to reach affected locations quickly and safely. We remind all Yavapai County residents of the importance of maintaining READY, preparing for, and staying aware of any possible hazards threatening your community, registering for the emergency notification system at www.ycsoaz.gov, making an emergency evacuation and communication plan, and following reputable and reliable sources for information. For the residents in the unincorporated areas of Yavapai County, go to Protect.Genasys.com to discover your evacuation zone. Write it down and keep it in an easily accessible place in your home. For more information on how to be prepared for wildfires and other emergencies, please visit www.yavapaiready.gov.

WHAT IS CERT? The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community. We should all be trained! #program #educatepeople #emergencyresponse #rescueteam #emergency #safety

The FEMA-U.S Fire Administration Fire Safety and #Winterready tour came to the Windy City today 🚒. Some of the leading minds in the fire service are touring Detroit, Chicago, and Columbus to raise awareness about increased fire risks in winter. This campaign focuses on educating the public on fire safety and preparation, especially during cold months. And today from Chicago, we report the following: 🗯 Did you know that over 25 children have died in fires this year, with an average of 8 fire fatalities a day? (It's January 2024) 🔥 "America is still burning, with high fire volumes in cities like Detroit, Chicago, Columbus" - Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell 🛋 "The impact of synthetic materials and lithium-ion batteries is changing the speed of fire, type of smoke, amount of time, and many other aspects within our response to fires" Steve Kerber ✅ Five easy things you can do to join the #WinterReady Movement: 1. Call 911 immediately in case of fire 🚒 2. Have a home fire escape plan with two ways out 🗺️ 3. Install tamper-resistant smoke alarms; test them monthly 🚨 4. Carbon monoxide alarms are essential, especially outside sleeping areas 🔔 5. Practice safe heating; keep flammable items at a safe distance ☄️ "Firefighting is everyone's fight. Let's keep our communities safe." Donna Black 🚪 "Close before you doze. If you can't get out safely, that closed door can buy firefighters additional time to save you" Steve Kerber "Firefighters answer the call when no one else will. We need to protect our firefighters, which means increased resources for their health and wellness." - Edward Kelly "We want you to consider the fire service as a career path. This is a place where you can grow a fruitful career, something that is rewarding and vital for community safety" - Kevin Quinn 💾 "We are experiencing a data evolution with the transition from the NFIRS to NERIS system. We need all fire service ranks to embrace this evolution. NERIS will make us faster, safer & more efficient." Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell The total list of speakers includes: Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator Annette Nance-Holt, Chicago Fire Commissioner Thomas S., FEMA Region V Administrator Dr. Steve Kerber, VP, Fire Safety Research Institute Chief Donna Black, Immediate Past-President, IAFC Edward Kelly, General President, IAFF Chief Kevin Quinn, National Volunteer Fire Council Victor Stagnaro, CEO, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Tom Lyons, Director of Communications, NFPA Chief Shane Ray-, President, National Fire Sprinkler Association #FireSafety #WinterReady #CommunityAwareness #FirePrevention #ProtectAndServe Jeff Dulin Rebecca Harned Evrim Bunn Teresa Neal Alex Gorsuch Tim Walsh Ken Willette David Povlitz Dan Munsey, MPA, EFO, CFO Scott Roseberry Cory Claborn Mike Cox Phil Ambrose Kirk McKinzie Stefan Truthän Chad Wallace Ken Rehbehn Chelsea Rubadou Baylie Scott Anthony Schultz Paul Darley Paul Couston Gerald Yusko Sonny E. Kirkley David W.

Yesterday afternoon, the Portland Fire Department swiftly responded to a distress call at Oaks Park Amusement Park. The situation involved a ride malfunction, leaving nearly 30 riders stranded 50 feet above the ground. Fortunately, the well-trained staff managed to safely lower the ride before the specialized rope rescue team arrived on the scene. This successful outcome can be attributed to the meticulous preplanning and continuous training carried out by Portland firefighters for various emergency scenarios. The ability of Portland Firefighters to effectively handle such a unique emergency underscores the importance of preparedness and proactive measures in ensuring public safety. By anticipating potential risks and regularly practicing response protocols, they are equipped to tackle unforeseen challenges with confidence. This incident serves as a testament to their dedication and commitment to leaving nothing to chance when it comes to protecting the community. The coordinated efforts of the emergency response team, coupled with their quick thinking and expertise, averted a potential disaster and ensured the well-being of all individuals involved. Instances like these highlight the crucial role that thorough planning and training play in mitigating risks and minimizing the impact of emergencies. Portland Firefighters stand ready to assist in any situation that may arise, showcasing their unwavering readiness to serve and protect the citizens of Portland. The proactive approach taken by the Portland Fire Department in scenarios like the one at Oaks Park Amusement Park illustrates their proactive mindset and commitment to upholding the highest standards of emergency response. Through continuous preparedness and a focus on honing their skills, they are able to address challenges swiftly and effectively, instilling confidence in the community they serve. This dedication to excellence ensures that Portland Firefighters are always ready to step in and provide assistance when needed, making them an invaluable asset to the city. #yourportlandfirefighters #technicalrescue #leavingnothingtochance #preplanningemergencies #wearereadytohelp #thanksjessicaforthepic

Yesterday afternoon, the Portland Fire Department swiftly responded to a distress call at Oaks Park Amusement Park. The situation involved a ride malfunction, leaving nearly 30 riders stranded 50 feet above the ground. Fortunately, the well-trained staff managed to safely lower the ride before the specialized rope rescue team arrived on the scene. This successful outcome can be attributed to the meticulous preplanning and continuous training carried out by Portland firefighters for various emergency scenarios. The ability of Portland Firefighters to effectively handle such a unique emergency underscores the importance of preparedness and proactive measures in ensuring public safety. By anticipating potential risks and regularly practicing response protocols, they are equipped to tackle unforeseen challenges with confidence. This incident serves as a testament to their dedication and commitment to leaving nothing to chance when it comes to protecting the community. The coordinated efforts of the emergency response team, coupled with their quick thinking and expertise, averted a potential disaster and ensured the well-being of all individuals involved. Instances like these highlight the crucial role that thorough planning and training play in mitigating risks and minimizing the impact of emergencies. Portland Firefighters stand ready to assist in any situation that may arise, showcasing their unwavering readiness to serve and protect the citizens of Portland. The proactive approach taken by the Portland Fire Department in scenarios like the one at Oaks Park Amusement Park illustrates their proactive mindset and commitment to upholding the highest standards of emergency response. Through continuous preparedness and a focus on honing their skills, they are able to address challenges swiftly and effectively, instilling confidence in the community they serve. This dedication to excellence ensures that Portland Firefighters are always ready to step in and provide assistance when needed, making them an invaluable asset to the city. #yourportlandfirefighters #technicalrescue #leavingnothingtochance #preplanningemergencies #wearereadytohelp #thanksjessicaforthepic

𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟: The series will focus on farm and ranch emergency management, first aid, fire protection and hazardous materials. Here's how to register. #HighPlainsJournal #HPJ #emergencypreparedness #firstaid

There is a lot to unpack here. As a veteran firefighter, former officer and Emergency Management analyst with years of experience, I cringed at the irresponsible decisions made here. It's crucial to address the topic of utilizing young teenaged men and women in wildland or structural firefighting operations. While it's admirable to see young individuals eager to join the firefighting ranks, it's paramount to prioritize their safety and well-being above all else. Firstly, the hazards and risks involved in firefighting cannot be overstated. Wildland fires, for instance, present unpredictable terrain, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the potential for sudden shifts in fire behavior. Structural firefighting also poses its own set of dangers, including building collapses, hazardous materials, and intense heat and smoke. For young teens, who may lack the physical strength, maturity, and experience of their older counterparts, these hazards become even more pronounced. They may not possess the stamina to endure long hours of physically demanding work or the mental fortitude to handle high-stress situations effectively. Additionally, their decision-making abilities and judgment may not be fully developed, increasing the likelihood of accidents or errors in judgment. Moreover, young bodies are still growing and developing, making them more susceptible to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other physical strains associated with firefighting activities. Exposure to smoke and toxic substances can also have long-term health consequences, especially for individuals whose bodies are still developing. As leaders in the fire service, it's our responsibility to mentor and guide the next generation of firefighters, ensuring they receive proper training, education, and support before they are exposed to the inherent risks of the job. While enthusiasm and passion are admirable traits, they must be tempered with caution and practicality when it comes to the safety of young firefighters. It's essential to prioritize their safety and well-being, providing them with the necessary training, supervision, and support to ensure they can contribute effectively while minimizing the potential for harm. If you are considering the use of younger (13-17yrs) men and women in your service, it would be best to use them in support roles first, provide them with controlled training and educational opportunities, and when they are of properly age welcome them into full operational duties.  Please share your thoughts below #Fire #Fireservice #wildlandfirefighting #structuralfirefighting #firefighter #emergencymanagement #dangers #hazards #LODD