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By Laura Aiken
Lessons in learning
Training and preparation play a tremendous role in firefighters’ lives. These two activities foster an environment of mandated lifelong learning in the fire service. Canadian Firefighter’s annual Training Day, which has traditionally been held in September, has an exciting new partnership with the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC). The association will be hosting Training Day in conjunction with the OAFC 2018 Conference & Trade Show, taking place May 3-6. The OAFC is offering Training Day as a great new package that includes keynote speakers, networking opportunities, the trade show, breakfast, lunch and breaks. OAFC 2018 is being held at the Delta Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre and the International Centre, both of which are conveniently located near the Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI), where Training Day will continue to take place.
In our cover story, David Moseley shares how a frightening and harmful personal experience taught him five very important lessons about fighting fire on the front lines. Elsewhere, in safer more controlled environments than fires raging where they ought not to be raging, researchers are studying how we learn and coming to some surprising conclusions that may affect firefighters. When it comes to how our senses make
associations with fear, such as not touching a hot stove, new science suggests the brain’s central amygdala is the start of the aversive learning centre, as reported by Science Daily on Oct. 23, 2017 in “How the brain learns to fear: New understanding”. The micebased trail conducted by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL) published its findings in Nature Neuroscience . Scientists have traditionally thought learning associations between senses and threat perception happen in the
Knowing where the seat of fear-based learning happens is an important step to targeting treatment, as is the intriguing potential of altering memories.
lateral portion of the amygdala. At CSHL, experiments that gave mice mild shocks while imaging the brain, as well as seeking to implant artificial memories of discomfort through optogenetics laser technology that activates specific neurons, suggest that the central portion of the amygdala is the catalyst. If this is right, researchers note this could change the way anxiety and disorders such as PTSD are treated. Optogenetics could certainly have implications for firefighters struggling with severe mental health illnesses brought on by trauma. Knowing where the seat of fear-based learning happens is
an important step to targeting treatment, as is the intriguing potential of altering memories.
A concept called transfer of learning looks at how we take skills and information and put them to use in new areas. Generalization involves how we understand and interpret the common threads in a multitude of scenarios. A new joint study between Canada, Israel and India is looking at music as a quantifier of how transfer of learning happens, reported Alanna Mitchell in Canadian Geographic on Nov. 29, 2017. Western music has octaves with 12 intervals, but Indian octaves range from 20 to 22. This differential in complexity may provide insight into sound-based learning and help populations with difficulties in this realm. This specific study isn’t fire service specific, but the body of knowledge it may generate could have important foundations for understanding how generalization occurs.
These two recent studies provide a tidbit of recent insight into the wide world of research on how the brain learns. We know we do what we do, but understanding why we do what we do opens the door to better training and preparation, and ultimately better learning for life.
April 2018
Vol. 41, No. 2 cdnfirefighter.com
EDITOR
Laura Aiken laiken@annexweb.com 416-522-1595
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Lauren Scott lscott@ annexbusinessmedia.com 416-510-5116
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Adam Szpakowski aszpakowski@annexweb.com 289-221-6605
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Dog detects bedbugs at fire hall
Several times a month, Vegas the beagle visits Vancouver Fire Hall No. 1 to sniff out bed bugs, a critter that firefighters often come in contact with on the job.
Deputy Chief Brian Godlonton told CTV news firefighters have had “dozens if not 100 exposures in the last year.” If Vegas detects bed bugs, the gear is taken to an oven, which cooks the contaminated equipment for two hours at about 50 C. Godlonton said the Vancouver fire department is the only one in Canada to have its own bed bug oven.
FedDev Ontario invests in fire fighting gel company
The Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), announced a $325,000 investment in a Napanee-based company that makes an eco-friendly fire fighting gel. FireRein created a 100 per cent fully bio-sourced, food-grade water additive gel called Eco-Gel, which is designed to extinguish fires faster while using less water than traditional gel products.
Firefighter designs time-saving lock box
Waterloo, Ont., firefighter Chris Evans designed a lock system that he says will help reduce wait times when first responders are trying to enter homes to provide assistance. The SAFE System consists of a lock box with an electronic key that can hold up to 16,000 key codes that correspond with cylinder boxes on homes in the community. Evans told CBC Kitchener-Waterloo’s Morning Edition that wait times can vary, but can sometimes be upwards of 20 minutes.
$325, 000
The amount FedDev Ontario is investing in FireRein
Aspiring firefighters learn from industry experts
Fire service hopefuls got a chance to brush shoulders with industry leaders at the 2018 Firefighter Career Expo hosted by Canadian Firefighter
The event was divided into two streams: Group A (those considering a fire service career), and Group B (people seeking fire service employment).
Reducing wait times Firefighter Chris Evans told the CBC that first responders can experience wait times of up to 20 minutes or more when trying to enter a home.
Kory Pearn, the first speaker and author of The Complete Guide to Becoming a Firefighter, shared strategies for standing out and how to get hired at one of your top three fire departments.
Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs executive director Richard Boyes talked to the packed room about Candidate Testing Services (CTS) and how to navigate the application process.
After the first networking break Group A broke off into smaller sessions with Brampton firefighters Britney Holmberg and Capt. Jeff Clayton who explained
what a day in the life is like. Afterwards, the group heard from Vaughan Fire and Rescue Services Deputy Chief Deryn Rizzi about how hopefuls can succeed. Meanwhile, Group B attendees took in resume, portfolio and interview tips from Sean Cooligan and David Gillespie of FirefighterInterviews.com.
After lunch both groups were back in the main lecture room to hear from Fire Chief Tim Beckett about what it’s like to be hired with Mississauga Fire & Emergency Services.
A panel discussion gave attendees information about how to stand out above a crowd of strong candidates. Rizzi and Beckett were joined by Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute Deputy Chief Dave Lane, in a discussion moderated by Kory.
The day ended with mock interviews with the panel that provided great experience for all.
Tim-bits
By Tim Llewellyn
Be prepared for anything
As a much younger man, I was taught early on in my fire service career to be prepared – for anything. In the fall of 1989, as a fresh-faced rookie, one of the first lessons I remember being offered up by a ‘salty old guy’ was to keep a pair of heavy socks in your fire boots for the colder months. Those hand-me-down rubber hip boots that were standard issue at my first volunteer fire department were minimally insulated and did little to fend off the bone-chilling winter cold. I took the advice and stuffed an old pair of wool hunting socks into the boots. However, I never actually put the socks on. It always seemed like too much work and it would take too much time to pull those rough, scratchy, stretched-out socks over my cotton ones. And besides, I didn’t want to miss the fire engine or be the last one to get on. My feet were often cold back then.
Fast-forward almost 30 years (man, time flies), I find that I am now the ‘salty old guy’ who gets to pass on tips to others. For those of you who have followed my Tim-bits articles in this fine publication for the past five years, you’ll notice that the overarching theme essentially boils down to what I was taught very early on – be prepared for anything. As firefighters, we need to construct our hose beds to be capable and ready for a forward or reverse lay. We need to be prepared to advance, position and lay out hoselines in
different manners for the greatest efficiency and effect. We need to be prepared.
In this column, I’m taking what my ‘salty old guy’ told me, and I’m adding my two cents along with what has worked well over my years of service. The preparation that I’m going to speak about is not that of training, but of personal preparedness for whatever might come our way.
My old guy told me to keep a spare pair of socks in my fire boots. My advice to all is to get a small duffle bag or backpack to hold a pair of socks and other essentials. I use a version of a pilot’s helmet bag that has served me well for several years now. It’s durable and is just the right size to hold what I might need; and not too big to get in the way in the front or back of the fire engine. I take it with me on every call; because, you know, I want to be prepared.
So, what’s inside? Nothing
groundbreaking, I just keep a few things that have helped me when things didn’t go as expected. First, there are the basics: something to change into or additional layers if I get cold and/or wet. There are two pairs of socks, one thick pair and one thin. And they’re good socks that I enjoy wearing; not the stretched out, scratchy ones that I had way back when. There’s also a long sleeve t-shirt and a sweatshirt, which have come in handy in both warm and cold weather.
I keep a fresh supply of water and some kind of nourishment. Currently living in the inside pockets of my bag are two bottles of water that I change out at least every six months and two or three granola bars and/or other non-coated energy bars. I found out the hard way that the chocolate-coated protein bars are a bad idea due to their low melting temperatures. You may think that keeping food
and water in a personal bag is a dumb idea if your apparatus always has water and some snacks on it – like my trucks do. But what happens if a problem arises for some reason and you find yourself not attached to that particular apparatus anymore? What if you are hungry or thirsty and the rehab wagon is still some time away? Always be prepared.
My personal bag also contains one spare pair of fire gloves and a spare fire hood. Like the socks, these items are quality and both are brand new. They are the same style and size that I use daily. In the rare occasion that your company ever finds itself going to back-to-back fires or long incidents, a dry pair of gloves and a dry hood can make a big difference for your personal comfort. And, if you lose your frontline gloves or hood, you will still be prepared to respond.
Finally, and probably most importantly, I keep a pack of baby wipes. Current research tells us that firefighters need to decontaminate their faces and necks ASAP after a fire call. Using a baby wipe after a call can help limit exposure to the harmful soot that makes its way through our gear. Also, if nature calls and you’re out in the middle of nowhere, they are a lifesaver.
Whether or not you decide to take advice is up to you. But I encourage you to ready yourself and your equipment, because in today’s world, you never know how long you’re going to be out when the call comes.
Tim Llewellyn is a firefighter for the Allegheny County Airport Authority in Pittsburgh, Pa., and an instructor for a number of fire academies and training faculties. llewellyn.fire@gmail.com
Firefighters should consider bringing a small duffle bag or backpack to hold the essentials you might need, and taking it with you on every call.
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Facing the fire
Sometimes we need to be taught a lesson or two, and sometimes the crucible of fire does just that. It’s long been said in the fire service that we should learn something from every call we attend. One memorable fire in particular taught me several valuable lessons I needed – this is what I learned from getting burned.
As our crew pulled into the lot that cold, snowy morning , we saw that we had a working fire in a house trailer. On the ride from the hall, I kept the recent deaths of two Winnipeg firefighters in a flashover in the back of my mind. We pulled our lines, packed up and got ready to enter. It was a typical house trailer. There were small windows to the left of the door and larger ones to the right, which indicated the fire burning on the trailer’s left side was in a bedroom or the bathroom. The plan was, enter and turn left, knock down the fire and complete a search. I cracked the nozzle of a 1 ½ - inch line to check the flow, then my partner and I quickly did a buddy check.
As soon as we entered the door the heat was unbearable. “It’s too hot, we’re searching right!” I hollered to both my partner and the officer outside the door. As we advanced, I paused to pull down the cuffs of my jacket – they had no thumb loop or hole, and my wrists were uncomfortably hot. There was virtually zero visibility and the heat was intense. When we reached a window I asked my partner to break it. He hadn’t brought a tool so I knocked it out with the nozzle. As
we continued to advance I applied a few short bursts of narrow fog to cool the thermal layer. Shortly after we turned the alpha-delta corner, I told my partner it was too hot and we were getting out.
We turned about face and I followed him, keeping the nozzle with me in case it was needed. In our hasty retreat with such low visibility I lost contact with my partner but I could hear him in front of me with the wall and hose to follow. As I passed the window I considered bailing from it but that would have guaranteed losing contact with my partner. Flames licked across the ceiling and I applied another short burst of water. Then I was suddenly obstructed but I didn’t know what was blocking my path, likely a kitchen table or chair. I tried moving the object, but I couldn’t. I tried getting around it, but I couldn’t. I decided to go over it and as I staggered
Five lessons from the frontlines of fire fighting. By David Moseley
Learn from every call. Here, Lac La Biche firefighters learn they need more thorough buddy checks (pull that jacket down!), and a 38mm attack line is too little water for this much fire.
towards the light peeking through the doorway, hands reached through it and pulled me out.
To my great relief my partner was also outside, smoke and steam streaming off him. As I cooled down, I realized I had second-degree burns circling each wrist, as well as a few spots on my neck and face. The blisters on my wrists immediately broke, so it was off to the hospital for dressing. From there, I went home for a shower and then I returned back to the office to finish the workday, only two hours after I left to fight that fire. An unwitting coworker stuck her head in my office and asked if I knew where the smell of burned bacon was from – it was me.
Several days passed before I saw or spoke to any of the other firefighters, and I felt pretty low. Would they consider me a liability? Or worse, would my peers reject me altogether? When I finally saw the chief, what he said made me feel better. We all moved on, but that doesn’t mean I don’t carry the lessons I learned during that fire on the scene with me today.
Feeling the heat
I learned to ask myself an important question: If it feels this hot in my bunker gear, will any occupant be found alive? Remember the old adage — risk a lot to save a lot, but risk nothing to save nothing
So, here are five things I learned from this fire.
1. Listen to what the heat is telling you. As obvious as this may seem, and as much as we may think it’s a simple fact that doesn’t need to be learned, I discovered what burning feels like. I mean no disrespect to those who have been seriously burned; these were not major burns. But now I know what that prickling feeling means and I know how to recognize it and act accordingly. Our firefighters continue to make aggressive interior fire attacks, but when I feel that sensation now ask myself the vital question I didn’t at this fire: If it feels this hot in my bunker gear, will any occupant be found alive? Remember the adage to risk a lot to save a lot, but risk nothing to save nothing.
2. Another seemingly obvious lesson is the value of training. In addition to not heeding what the heat was telling me, I made mistakes. We should have had a tool to break the window. I failed to keep contact when bugging out. Did breaking the window help or hinder the situation? Debatable. Did water to the thermal layer prevent flashover or did it push down the thermal layer? I hope the former, but also debatable. Despite the myriad mistakes, our training did get us out alive. Despite a deficiency with my coat, we wore and used our PPE as trained. We stayed low, avoiding the worst of the heat (until I consciously decided to jump the obstacle). My partner and I successfully navigated a dark and extremely hostile environment, successfully making it out under life-threatening circumstances. Though imperfect, our training efforts and hard work paid off. When needed, key training components kicked in and got us out alive.
3. A less obvious lesson, this response illustrated the value of critical incident defusing and debriefing sessions. Our team didn’t do one after this call. Was this a critical incident? I think so. My injuries were very minor and my partner was uninjured, but it was a close call and we were definitely rattled by it. I don’t have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and don’t feel traumatized by this call, but I did feel isolated from my peers and I felt bad for days before talking to my chief. I’m a big promoter of critical incident stress management (CISM) training, and in this case, I think a defusing session would have been beneficial. And while I don’t claim CISM prevents PTSD, I think helping firefighters to feel better is pretty worthwhile in itself.
4. A side-note to the above, is that black humour has value, but also risks. Black humour is
common in the fire hall, and it can be a useful tool to cope with the tough realities of the job. The burned bacon line made me laugh at the time, and I have repeated it for a laugh since. But jokes like these are not always appropri ate. I realize that smell is no joke to many firefighters, and just maybe, I should stop using that old line. 5. Probably the most important thing learned was value of humility. This is not a back-handed brag; I’m not proud of this event. It came about 15 years into my fire service career, after five years with a red helmet. I thought I had this fire thing figured out. Thinking that way is dangerous, and I’m so grateful that fire kicked my butt and taught me a lesson, without someone being seriously in jured in the process. As firefighters, we don’t need to beat ourselves up over mistakes, but we should never forget that we’re human – and we all make mistakes.
I know this closing advice is far from original, but it bears repeating: training is crucial to avoid getting burned. Firefight ers must commit to continuous training, practice and study, knowing that we continuous learning helps to keep our col leagues and community safe. Take the courses, show up for
Back to basics
By Mark van der Feyst
Mark van der Feyst has been in the fire service since 1999 and is currently a full-time firefighter with the Woodstock Fire Department in Ontario. Mark is an international instructor teaching in Canada, the United States, FDIC and India. He can be contacted at Mark@FireStarTraining.com
Firefighter survival: Making a mayday call, part 4
In the January issue of Canadian Firefighter, and part 3 of this series, we looked at taking the necessary action step of orientation. Now, we are going to look at the second action step, which is communication. Communication allows the incident commander (IC) to address the rescue situation as well provide the rapid intervention team (RIT) with the information they need to successfully rescue the firefighter. Without communication, the chances of a firefighter surviving any ordeal decrease dramatically.
In our current day, we can communicate in many different ways. Some people communicate more with electronic devices than with their own mouth and ears, but on the fire ground, firefighters must verbally communicate with portable radios or with visual cues.
Communication involves at least two people – sender and receiver. Whenever a message is sent out, the receiver needs to be able to receive it, understand it and then respond back to the sender. The firefighter who is calling a mayday needs to be able to send out a message for help, have that message received by IC, and the IC must respond back.
As communication involves at least two people, the question now is, are there any barriers to communication? These two people are not just limited to the mayday firefighter and the IC; it can also include other team members. If the team members are in close proximity, they should be able to and rely upon verbal or visual communication to do so. If the team members can communicate with each other, they are in a better position to assist each other to get out of the situation
Without communication, the chances of a firefighter surviving any ordeal decrease dramatically.
safely. The team members can also relay information to IC, which can help account for the team members or provide information about their status and safety.
Hopefully, at least one of the team members will have a portable radio, but ideally every firefighter should be carrying one while operating on the fire ground. The portable radio is an excellent lifeline for communications. It allows us to operate further away from IC so that we can accomplish our assignments. Many departments are able to supply radios to their members, however there are some departments that cannot, due to limited budgets and size of membership. Having a portable radio is vital to the rescue and survival of endangered firefighters.
sometimes specified by the department as to where it will be located and what size it should be. But the radio pocket is not the best spot to keep the portable radio. It is not as protected from thermal heat as it would be if worn on a radio strap under the jacket. When exposed to a heat source of any type, the cord will melt, rendering the microphone inoperable. The radio pocket is constructed from the same material as the outer shell – there is no inside liner protecting the radio from heat. On another note, the cord can also become an entanglement hazard.
In photo 1, the radio microphone is exposed just outside the top of the coat. The rest of the radio is worn underneath the jacket. The firefighter is using a radio strap so that the radio is sitting down by his waist area just under the jacket. The radio and microphone cord running up the front of the firefighter under his coat are protected from the heat. The top end of the mic is the only exposed part of the radio – it is also easier for the firefighter to reach and operate the radio when trying to communicate, while eliminating another entanglement hazard. If a firefighter doesn’t have a radio, they will need to rely upon direct verbal and visual communication as mentioned in the beginning. Firefighters can make a distress call with a hand tool, such as breaking a window to get someone’s attention, throwing something out of the window, or shining a light at the window. There are many ways that team members can establish rudimentary communications with basic sounds and sight. It is just a matter of using whatever is at our disposal; whether it is a flashlight, hand tool or portable radio.
Communication is the essential when firefighters are calling for a mayday. Good communication strategies can ensure firefighters get the help they need when in trouble –whether it’s a call to the IC or a fellow crewmember. No radio? Firefighters
Many firefighters can find their portable radio in the supplied radio pocket of their structural fire fighting jacket. This radio pocket is
The firefighter is using a radio strap so that the radio is sitting down by his waist area just under the jacket, keeping the cords protected from the heat. This radio placement allows for easier access, while eliminating entanglement hazards.
Join us in May for Firefighter Training at the OAFC 2018 Conference & Trade Show, sponsored by Fire Fighting in Canada and Canadian Firefighter
The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) has partnered with Fire Fighting in Canada and Canadian Firefighter to add relevant, practical firefighter training to the OAFC 2018 program line-up. OAFC 2018 the largest fire and emergency conference and trade show in Canada!
This training program, originally offered as a one day training session in September by Canadian Firefighter, has moved to May to align with this premiere fire service event. In addition, it will now be two days, and offer expanded opportunities to learn and network with your fire service peers.
Firefighters will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts and expand their skillset in one of five courses, including live fire rescue, auto extrication, firefighter survival, forcible entry and aircraft rescue firefighting for municipal and rural firefighters.
Located nearby at the GTAA’s Fire & Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI), this program gives volunteer, part-time and full-time firefighters the opportunity to expand their training and enhance their skills. The training package includes keynote sessions at the Delta Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre, provides free access to the fire and emergency services trade show hosted at the International Centre, and includes evening functions. Participants will gain multiple networking opportunities with all levels of the fire service!
The program is offered at only $250 per person (plus tax). Participants can choose to attend either May 4 & 5 OR May 5 & 6. Breakfast, lunch and breaks are included.
For more information, accommodations and to register, visit the OAFC website: www.oafc.on.ca/ event/oafc-2018-attendeesand click on Firefighting Training!
Recipe rescue
By Patrick Mathieu
Eat better to feel better
As I am sure we are all aware, fire fighting is one of the most dangerous jobs on earth. We give so much of ourselves to others in their time of need, and in consequence, we are often exposed to high levels of physical and mental stress during our shifts. Unfortunately, this leads to higher rates of illness and injury among firefighters than the general population. In a profession where culture change can take an excruciatingly long time, firefighter mental and physical wellness has not gone unnoticed. The issue is quickly moving to the forefront, and is now a major focus in many fire departments. First responders are much more likely to develop a mental disorder than the general Canadian population, a 2017 study published in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry found. It is an issue that absolutely needs to be addressed and action can’t come fast enough. Education in firefighter health, behavioural wellness and self-care has been taking shape on an international level. The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) has taken huge strides in promoting overall wellness. IAFF programs such as the Peer Fitness Training Program and Peer Support Training Program are available to all members, especially ones who might be struggling with any life/work issues. All firefighters should be able to enjoy a happy and productive work/
life balance and these programs provide the tools to help prepare us for the high demands of the job, and life in general.
I had the privilege of sitting in on the IAFF Peer Support Training course offered in Toronto in late January, and it was amazing to see my brothers and sisters from departments across Ontario all sharing the same concern: some of our members are struggling. Issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance abuse and suicide are impacting our membership across the province. During this course we learned how to help our members cope in times of need, find appropriate professional help if necessary, and how we can provide personal support. We are so used to helping the public, but what happens when one of our own needs us? We have to be ready and able to help our colleagues in an instant.
If we think of optimal behavioural wellness as a puzzle, the perfect configuration of good mental and physical health, then there is one more piece to unite the two: nutrition. Not for a second do I proclaim to be a nutritionist or dietitian, but I think we can all agree on these notions:
• If I eat more fruits and vegetables, I will be healthier.
• If I eat more whole grains, balanced/whole foods, I will be healthier.
• If I stay away from processed, high fat/sugar foods the majority of the time, I will be healthier.
Patrick Mathieu is an acting captain at Waterloo Fire Rescue in Ontario. Mathieu is the author of Firehouse Chef: Favourite Recipes from Canada’s Firefighters, published in 2016. stationhousecateringco@yahoo.ca @StationHouseCCo
Sous-vide carne asada and grilled veggies with chimichurri sauce
FOR THE STEAK:
• 3 bulbs roughly chopped garlic
• 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 8 large limes)
• ¼ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 1/4 cup clear tequila
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 bunch roughly chopped fresh cilantro, leaves and stems
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper and kosher salt
• 3 zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ½ inch-thick rectangles
• 12 cremini mushrooms
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 12 green onions, roots cut off
• 12 small tomatoes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup bocconcini cheese
• Chimichurri sauce for serving, recipe follows
Combine the garlic, lime juice, tequila, soy sauce, cilantro, jalapeno, cumin, black pepper and salt in a re-sealable plastic bag. Add the steak and let marinate at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes.
Prepare a water bath to 131 degrees Fahrenheit using a precision cooker tool. Using the water immersion method place the flank steak into the heated bath and set the timer for 90 minutes. When the 90 minutes is up, remove the steak from the bath and pat dry with paper towel. Season with salt and pepper and using a cast iron pan brushed with one tablespoon of avocado oil sear the flank steak over very high heat for about a minute or two per side. Add the butter and baste the steak in the last few seconds of cooking. Remove the steak from the pan and allow to rest while you grill your veggies. Heat your grill over high heat. Brush the vegetables with ¼ cup of the oil to coat lightly. Sprinkle the vegetables liberally with salt and pepper. Working in batches, grill the vegetables until tender and lightly charred all over, starting with the sweet potatoes for about eight to10 minutes; seven minutes for the peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms; and four minutes for the asparagus, green onions and tomatoes. The key to getting those great grill marks is to not shift the vegetables too frequently once they’ve been placed on the hot grill. To plate, place vegetables on a large platter, slice the steak across the grain and lay on top of the vegetables. Scatter bocconcini cheese around the vegetables and steak. Drizzle the entire platter with chimichurri sauce and enjoy!
STATIONHOUSE CHIMICHURRI SAUCE
• 1 cup lightly packed parsley
• ½ cup lightly packed cilantro
• 3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
• 2 tablespoons green onion, white and green part minced
• 3/4 cup grape seed oil
• 3 tablespoons sherry wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Place all chimichurri sauce ingredients in a food processor and pulse until well chopped, but not pureed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Place in a glass screw top Mason jar and use on everything!
Recipe rescue
• If I eat in moderation, I will be healthier.
• If I cook my own meals, I will be healthier. These are facts, plain and simple. I have found in my public speaking engagements at fire departments that firefighters want good food and simple nutrition. They want tasty, balanced meals, no
Grilled halibut with blood orange quinoa salad
FOR THE SALAD:
• 3 blood oranges
• 8 thin slices fresh ginger
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¾ cup quinoa
• 1 ½ cups vegetable stock
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 small jalapeno, minced (with seeds for maximum heat if preferred)
• 2 green onions (both white and green parts), minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• ½ cup black beans, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• Freshly ground black pepper
fad diets, nothing complicated, just real food that provides the energy we need to face life’s obstacles, both on the job and in life. The body of evidence linking diet and mental health is growing at a rapid rate. Australian scientists found high-calorie diets consisting of nutrient-poor, processed foods are associated with
FOR THE FISH:
• 2 pounds skinless halibut cut into 2-inch cubes
• Steel skewers
Peel two of the blood oranges reserving the peel and segments separately. Warm the blood orange peels, ginger, and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. As soon as the oil starts to bubble, after about two minutes, remove from heat. Set the oil aside to steep while you prepare the rest of the dish. Strain and reserve the oil.
Meanwhile, rinse the quinoa in a bowl and drain. Put the quinoa in a small saucepan with the vegetable stock and ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, and then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cook uncovered for 15 minutes. Set aside off the heat, for five minutes. Transfer the quinoa to a bowl and fluff with a fork.
Juice the third blood orange over a bowl, there should be roughly about two tablespoons. Whisk the orange juice with the vinegar, honey, and salt to taste in a medium bowl. Gradually whisk in three tablespoons of the reserved blood orange oil then season with pepper to taste.
Toss quinoa with the dressing, jalapeno, green onions, shallots, black beans, and cilantro. Slice the reserved blood orange segments in half and add them to the salad. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
For the halibut, preheat a grill to high heat. Thread the halibut cubes onto the metal skewers. Season the halibut skewers with salt and pepper and brush with some of the blood orange oil. Grill the skewers, turning as each side browns, basting with the orange oil, about three minutes per side. Place halibut skewers on top of quinoa salad and enjoy!
Super greens & aged cheddar soup
INGREDIENTS
• 1 head broccoli
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup packed spinach
• 1 cup chopped packed kale
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded old white cheddar
• 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest
• Smoky pepitas for serving, recipe follows
• Diced avocado, for serving
Cut the broccoli florets from the stems and roughly chop the stems into ½ inch pieces.
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high. Add the onion, celery, and broccoli stems. Lower the heat to medium, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the vegetables slowly until tender, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for a few minutes longer.
Add the thyme with the broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, spinach, kale, stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes until all the vegetables are very tender.
Purée the soup with a hand blender until smooth. Add the aged cheddar a handful at a time stirring constantly to incorporate it. Add the lemon zest and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve garnished with smoky pepitas and diced avocado. Enjoy!
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
SMOKY PEPITAS
• 1 cup pepitas (or 2 cups sunflower seeds)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
Place the pepitas into a bowl with the oil and spices and then toss to coat. Spread the coated pepitas onto a baking sheet and then place in the oven for six to seven minutes until toasted.
Allow to cool completely and store in an airtight container until ready to use.
increases in depression and other mental disorders, in a 2014 paper published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology . Studies show that those with balanced, nutrient-dense diets report lower levels of mental health issues compared those with poor diets. What we eat plays an important role in our mental and physical health. If we can put all of the pieces of the puzzle together, then I think firefighters will be on the right road to living long, happy and healthy lives. If we can utilize the physical fitness and mental resiliency tools at our disposal as firefighters, hopefully we can maintain our
bodies and minds throughout our careers and into a happy and healthy retirement. I believe if we link the two components of optimal behavioural wellness with proper nutrition then the puzzle will be complete.
Firefighters would do absolutely anything to help keep each other safe at a fire scene, so why would daily life be any different? As a united membership, we can make a difference. I have included three healthy recipes to ensure members in your fire hall or home are all eating well-balanced, nutritious, and of course, delicious meals. Let’s eat well and stay safe.
Between alarms
By Arjuna George
Leaders are readers
Some of the world’s most successful people all have one thing in common: they are all fanatical readers. Reading provides a multitude of benefits to your personal life and your career. Before I joined the fire service, I was far from an avid reader, but once I found my calling and developed a strong passion for the trade, reading was easy. Reading became interesting and it was fun. I am sure my love for reading has brought me to where I am today: a proud father, husband, and fire chief. Reading has also opened up opportunities like writing for Canadian Firefighter magazine. There is one common denominator among great leaders – they all read a lot, and I mean a lot. Many of today’s most successful people read multiple books a month. For example, Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates told The New York Times he reads 50 books per year – about a book every week. Just think about the number of ideas that could be generated from reading four books a month.
If you have a problem in the fire station or a task that is challenging you, it is almost guaranteed that someone out there has already experienced it too. They may have even written about it. Some of the greatest minds have most likely already delved deep into the subject and researched solutions that might help or inspire you. Use reading as a means to learn from tried and tested experts, and accelerate your career and your life goals.
Arjuna George is chief of Salt Spring Island Fire Rescue in British Columbia; he has served on the department since 1997. ageorge@saltspringfire.com @AJGeorgefire @AJGeorgeFire @SSIFR
Reading is a perfect and affordable tool for self-development, giving you information to help push you ahead of the pack in a very competitive world. The knowledge you can gain from reading is limitless and within everyone’s reach. Famous innovator Elon Musk taught himself rocket science by reading everything he could on the subject, with no formal schooling. Reading is an opportunity to consult with the greatest thinkers and innovators throughout history. Especially today, with access to the internet, we have an unprecedented volume of knowledge available at our fingertips.
Whether you’re reading content related to the fire service, or business, self-help, fiction, blogs, or magazines like this one, every word you read will further fuel your passion. To be successful you
must pursue knowledge from leaders in your field. If reading a paper book seems outdated to you, try an audio book or e-book –or try all three. I have a massive personal library of paper books but I also have a wide selection of e-books and audiobooks for learning on the go. Audiobooks are very affordable and are great for long commutes or traveling, while providing a different way to learn. Everyone has a preferred method of learning. Some soak up the information by reading, some by watching, and some by listening. If you are serious and committed to becoming the best you, there really is no excuse not to benefit from the vast array of information and formats out there.
Over Christmas I was fortunate enough to have been gifted over $200 in gift cards at an online bookstore. Within a few days, the cards were
empty and my new books were en route. Finding the right book has never been easier or more convenient.
I have such a large collection of business, management and leadership books I have had to record my collection on a phone app. The app keeps a log of all the books I own, and ones I have on my must read list so I don’t repurchase books I already have. Online bookstores like Chapters and Amazon have millions of books for sale on every subject imaginable that can be in your hands within days.
Amplify the usefulness of books, by making side notes, marking, highlighting, and adding sticky notes, whatever works best for you to increase retention and allow for a quick review. I have also made summary notes in some of the greatest books I have read at the back of the book, which include all the important nuggets of information for future reference. Use whatever tools you feel comfortable with, but find ways to make the most of your time spent reading and learning.
Reading provides you with deep knowledge that increases your vocabulary, provides you with ideas and insight, and is a great way to unplug and relax.
As Harry S. Truman once said, “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” So if maximizing your leadership potential interests you or you’re looking to excel in your fire service path, now is the time to read, learn and grow.
So next time you are between alarms, pick up a book that really interests you and give it a try.
Whether you prefer paper books, audiobooks, or reading e-books, there is a vast array of information and formats available to help you expand your mind.
Extrication tips
By Chad Roberts
Chad Roberts is a firefighter in Oakville, Ont., and works on a heavy rescue. He is a member of the Oakville extrication team and competes and trains across North America. chadroberts12@gmail.com
Electric vehicles aren’t that different
In looking back at Extrication Tips columns from the last year, we’ve managed to touch on a back-to-basics approach for auto extrication, a system for controlling extrication (SHADE), and a two-part patient care series.
This issue, I thought it would be fitting to tackle something that is becoming more prevalent on our roads today: electric and hybrid vehicles. Although this is a very broad topic to cover in one article, I’m going to try and sum up the basics, including vehicle hazards and shut down procedures, while dismissing some commonly-held electric vehicle misconceptions.
Electric car sales are on the rise so we must start to accept these vehicles as an everyday hazard. However, with technology changing faster than this article can be written, our first concern is identifying these alternative vehicles and addressing what type of electric vehicle they really are.
The first type is the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) such as the Toyota Prius. This electric vehicle derives its power from two sources. The first being the internal combustion engine and the second being the electric motor powered by a battery source that is charged solely by the combustion engine and regenerative braking (power that is transferred using the vehicles braking system to recharge the high voltage battery). The next type is the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), such as the Ford C-Max. These vehicles are very similar to HEVs, however they have the capability to be plugged in to an external power source to help recharge the high-voltage battery. Then there is the electric vehicle (EV) – a true
electric vehicle, with no other means for power other than the on-board high-voltage battery packs that are charged by an external power source plug-in. These are very quickly becoming the most popular options as newer technology is improving battery life and therefore overall range or distance for cars such as a a Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla. Lastly, there is the extended range EV, which has the addition of an on-board gasoline generator that recharges the high-voltage batteries while the vehicle is in motion when more range is required, like the Chevrolet Volt.
Now that we’ve identified the different types of high-voltage electric vehicles, let’s look at how the high-voltage system works so
we can understand the best ways to mitigate any issue we find. Overall power for electric high voltage cars can be broken down into direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). DC moves in one direction and is mainly power driven by batteries, while AC can switch directions and go back and forth many times per second. AC is commonly found in residential and commercial settings. While different in many ways, they both have one main thing in common; each require a complete path or circuit for the current to flow. From this basic principle we can start looking at how the circuit applies to electric vehicles and guides our shut down procedures. To make this as simple as possible, we are going to consider five different high-voltage components. In this scenario, the team would use a 12V battery, DC-to-AC inverter, DC-to-DC converter, relay switch and high-voltage cables (universally identified by their orange colour). To get the high-voltage system running, electric cars use a 12V battery to start up much like conventional vehicles. Once the vehicle is powered up, the DC-to-DC converter will start to receive power, which charges the 12V battery and powers low-voltage systems like SRS air bags. But more importantly, the DC-to-DC converter closes the “relay switch” and ensures it remains closed. This completes the closed circuit the high-voltage system needs to convert DC power from the battery packs to AC power to run the electric motor. The DC-to-AC inverter can also transfer current back to the high-voltage battery by using regenerative braking.
I know electric vehicle oper-
The orange cable is the high voltage disconnect on a Tesla Model S. High voltage disconnects can look different depending on the manufacturer, but the orange colour is universal.
ations may seem tough to follow, but don’t get discouraged. When looking at shut down procedures it’s really quite simple. The first option is to disable the vehicle in two phases. First, locate and shut down the vehicle ignition – this
will open the relay switch and kill the high-voltage system. Next locate and disable the 12V battery to kill power to the DC-to-DC converter and isolate any power to the low-voltage and air bag systems.
ROOKIE TO CHIEF…
Our next option for vehicle shut down is useful in a situation where crews cannot turn off the vehicle ignition cannot due to damage or inaccessibility. The first step is to disconnect the 12V battery. Then locate and pull the high-voltage control fuse, which will disconnect any 12V power to the DC-toDC converter, opening the relay switch to kill the high-voltage system. The only issue with this option is that these control fuses can be located in different locations depending on the manufacturer. Some are easily identifiable, like the most recent Tesla models shown in Photo 1, whereas you may need to refer to the owner’s manuals or the NFPA
Extrication tips
Emergency Field Guide for some models.
Now that shut down procedures have been addressed, let’s look at some of the most common incidents and safety concerns that make crews think twice when they encounter an EV on the scenes.
First, let’s address the car fire. When faced with an EV that is on fire, one clear thing must be assessed: has the fire involved the high-voltage battery packs? If so, no need to worry, as the chance for electrocution with water application is non-existent. The main issue that crews need to be concerned with is establishing a good water supply, as battery packs may require more water to extinguish. Full PPE and SCBA are also required as burning battery packs can create caustic and toxic fumes. The only remaining issue with battery pack fires is re-kindling. High-voltage battery packs can hold heat for a long period of time, so firefighters need to ne aware of this.
Next is the submerged EV. Is there a potential for electrocution? And the answer is simply, no. With the entire high-voltage system isolated from the vehicle chassis, there is no potential for electrocution when touching the submerged vehicle. Some things to keep in mind are to avoid all high voltage systems and cables, and never attempt to remove a wet or submerged high-voltage control fuse.
What about extrication? When doing cutting, prying or pushing, avoid high-voltage system components and orange high-voltage cables. Most of these systems and cables are located on the underside of the vehicle or outside of areas that are generally used to access patients.
Damaged batteries can potentially generate heat, so ventilation may be required. However, any leaks from high-voltage batteries should be minimal as they are drycell batteries. Simply follow the same vehicle shutdown procedures as mentioned above before beginning the extrication process. And lastly, we will address when an EV and its charging station is on fire, or a situation where the
When doing cutting, prying or pushing, avoid high-voltage system components and orange high-voltage cables.
charging station is damaged. When presented with this situation, don’t over think it. The EV and charging station fire should simply be treated as a typical Class C fire until the power can be isolated. Once isolated, accomplished, extinguish the fire and follow the same vehicle shutdown procedures as mentioned earlier.
Although this is not the ultimate guide to hybrid and electric vehicle emergency operations, this article provides a broad overview and safe approaches to an emerging issue facing the fire service. When dealing with an incident involving an EV: just remember the five high-voltage system components, disable the vehicle using the two-stage process and don’t fall prey to tunnel vision. If we apply the proper shutdown procedures, assuming that all high-voltage systems are always live, we will begin to understand these vehicles are not all that different.
So until next time, be smart and never stop watching, reading and listening.
Electric car sales are rising, and their presence on the road must be seen as an everyday potential for incidents.
Fit for duty
By Sherry Dean
What it means to be fit
What is fitness? It means different things to different people and can be activity-specific. For example, a fit triathlete and a fit baseball player are two very different athletes. Some would consider a “fit” person to be someone with a high level of general fitness, while others might consider sport performance and proficiency to be “fit”. When you separate general fitness and sport performance it becomes clear that there are different training approaches for varying definitions of fitness. If you examined fire fighting as a sport, would you make changes to your training regime in order to maximize your performance?
Some people are happy to just play hockey. Go out, work hard, have a little fun and get a little fit – maybe even win a game. Some people want to master hockey. They practice plays, shots, game strategy, and condition themselves to the best they can be at their sport. There is specificity in these athletes’ training.
However, there are varying outlooks on sport and fitness, and the intention isn’t to say which is best, because it depends on the athlete and the target.
Not everyone wants to be an Olympic athlete or the firefighter equivalent of an Olympic athlete. The intention here isn’t to assume you do, but no matter your outlook on the sport, goal-specific training will help you meet your fitness targets. Your your training should be specific to your goals.
Warm-up - 2 rounds
Moderate pace. Do three rounds if you aren’t warm after two.
• 2 minutes cardio (jog, skip, bike etc.)
• 5 inch worms
• 15 air squats
• 10 around the world shoulder loops (light weight) or pass through with towel/pvc
• 10 walking lunges
• 10 tricep push-ups (narrow)
Exercise options
1. Dumbbell: single arm ground to overhead (20 each side)
2. Use whatever technique you like to take the weight from the floor to pressing it overhead. Clean and jerk , or snatch movement. Use good form, keeping your core and glutes engaged at all times.
3. Push-ups: make sure your body is straight. No roll ups, no high glutes. If you need to switch to modified push-ups on your knees, that’s ok.
4. Jumping split lunges: alternate legs each rep. Each jump is a rep. Hands hanging at side for low intensity, hands on high waist for medium intensity and hands directly overhead for high intensity.
5. Burpees: two foot take off to jump back and two foot take off to jump forward. Try not to step back or step up. Too easy? Next time start at 25 reps or increase weight/speed
Strength Exercise
1. Pick the body part you most need to work on to increase strength. Choose one exercise. Yes, only one.
2. Do two to three warm up sets of eight to 10 reps building each set.
3. Choose a weight you can
Sherry Dean is a career firefighter/engineer with Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency Service. She has more than 20 years of experience in fitness and training. deansherry@bellaliant.net
complete five reps with excellent form, but you are working hard. Complete five rounds of three to five reps. Increase your weight each round unless you cannot complete three reps. If you can’t complete three reps go back down. Your form should never suffer for a single rep.
4. On your sixth set go down to 80 per cent of your maximum weight and go until failure. You may not get very many reps, but try for at least five to eight.
20-15-10-5
• Round 1 - 20 reps of each exercise
• Round 2 - 15 reps of each exercise
• Round 3 - 10 reps of each exercise
• Round 4 - five reps of each exercise
Cool Down/Mobility
Walk until your heart rate is lowered before starting these stretches.
Kneeling hip flexor stretch two minutes each leg: a deep lunge with back knee on the ground. Push your hips forward and downward
10 twisted cross each side: lying face down arms straight out to the side, place the left foot behind you up to your right hand as far as it will go. Hold for two seconds each rep. Breathe.
Two minutes child’s pose: kneeling with your feet together and knees a little more than shoulder width apart, place your forehead on the ground and your arms straight out on the ground above your head. Press your underarms and torso toward the ground.
If your goal is general firefighter fitness I recommend a good balance of strength, aerobic conditioning and enough mobility training (range of motion) to help you avoid injury. However, you should take a practical approach. Firefighters need specialized skills and competencies that that vary according to your community and department functions. Interior fire fighting requires different physical skills than exterior fire fighting and rural operations are different than urban.
Some firefighters are not thrilled about climbing a 100foot ladder. In fact, some are completely terrified. An officer probably isn’t going to send that scared firefighter up seven stories for a rescue. The officer would choose a firefighter with more specialized training or a higher level of proficiency. On the other hand, dragging a hose and carrying tools is something every frontline firefighter should be able to do without the risk of serious injury due to inability. This is an essential, not specialized, skill on the fire ground. Lives and property depend on it. Without sounding dramatic, these are simple truths.
Firefighters should condition themselves by training to the same level of performance required for operational duty. Arriving on scene physically unable to complete a task puts an extra burden on your crew and puts you at risk of injury. Be reasonable about what you are required to do on the job and be honest about your level of engagement. Build your fitness or performance program around those goals.
Time to work.
Why stop if you don’t have to?
1 Christenson J, Andrusiek D, Everson-Stewart S, et al. Chest compression fraction determines survival in patients with out-of-hospital ventricular fibrillation. Circulation. 2009;120:1241-1247.
When you keep your hands on the patient, you increase compression fraction—a key factor in successful outcomes1. The innovative LIFEPAK® CR2 defibrillator is the only AED that analyses and makes a shock decision while chest compressions continue, reducing the pause between CPR and defibrillation.
Download more information about the new technology that makes this possible: stryker.com/dontstop
Reducing exposure
Hamilton, Ont., firefighters are taking extra precautions against asbestos contact on the job
By Lauren Scott
The Hamilton Fire Department in southern Ontario responded to a challenging fire at St. Peter’s Hospital last November.
After the incident, Fire Chief Dave Cunliffe told CBC News of the difficulties members faced fighting the hospital fire. Firefighters had to climb the stairs on their knees, hose in hand, to try to push back the fire, he shared.
“The fire was literally rolling down,” Cunliffe said at a press conference following the fire. “It was a very difficult fire, no question about it.”
Ninety-six palliative care patients were forced to relocate to other hospitals in the city and in nearby Burlington, Ont.
But the challenges did not end once the fire was put out.
After the incident, firefighters were extremely cautious during the decontamination process because the building contained asbestos.
Asbestos and firefighters
Asbestos is a carcinogenic mineral, known to cause cancer that was commonly used in building construction, insulation, cement, automotive parts such as brake pads, and even firefighter gear for its heat resistant properties.
Asbestos can be found in many buildings built before the 1980s, though it is rare to find the mineral in modern homes.
Paul Demers, an occupational health professor at the University of Toronto, says firefighters should assume asbestos is present in older buildings.
“The challenge is that almost any
structure built prior to, let’s say about the mid-1970s, probably has asbestos in it somewhere. We used a lot of asbestos in Canada until around that time,” Demers said.
He says firefighters need to be cautious around insulation, pipe wrappings, linoleum, plaster (asbestos is often found in popcorn ceilings), and even some doors, when responding to older homes.
“The best case scenario is that [the asbestos] remains inside of those materials and it doesn’t get into the air,” Demers said. “The problem is that when there’s a fire it’s very easy for some of that to be released into the air, because it survives the fire.”
“Once it’s been released it’s going to be back in the environment.”
Firefighters who work in cities with a
large number of older buildings, like Hamilton, Ont., are particularly vulnerable for asbestos exposure.
“In a way, you almost have to assume that if a building is in that age group and anything older, unless you know differently, there could be asbestos there.”
Asbestos -related cancer
When asbestos is released into the air, firefighters are at risk of breathing in the fibres. Once inhaled, the fibres can imbed themselves into the lining of the lungs or chest wall, causing mesothelioma – a rare but highly fatal form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma and asbestos-related lung cancer can take 10 to 40 years to develop, as symptoms – such as painful coughing and shortness of breath – may
Asbestos is a carcinogenic mineral that was commonly used in building construction, insulation, cement, automotive parts such as brake pads, and even firefighter gear for its heat resistant properties.
Lauren Scott is the assistant editor of Canadian Firefighter and Fire Fighting in Canada. lscott@ annexbusinessmedia.com
not appear until the cancer has spread. Many patients are not diagnosed until later stages, which negatively impacts the chance of survival.
The average life expectancy following diagnosis is about six to 12 months and 67 per cent of people die within a year according to the US-based Mesothelioma + Asbestos Awareness Center.
A 2013 study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that firefighters are two times more likely to develop mesothelioma than the rest of the U.S. population, as they are more likely to come into contact with asbestos.
In fact, firefighters are 100 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than the general population, indicates a 2015 study that looked at firefighters working in San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia. Another study found that older firefighters are 159 per cent more likely to develop cancer than the average American, as they have had greater exposure to older homes.
However, Demers said there is still not enough data linking firefighters to increased levels of mesothelioma and asbestos-related cancer, as these diseases take such a long time to develop and track. He says he expects more firefighter-specific research in the coming years.
Asbestos fibres were linked to 1,900 lung cancer and 430 mesothelioma cases in Canada in 2011, according to the government.
In 2016, the Canadian government announced that the country is expected to completely ban asbestos by 2018, implementing new codes and regulations.
The proposed Prohibition of Asbestos and Asbestos Products Regulations, introduced in January, “would prohibit the import and uses of asbestos and products containing asbestos in Canada, with limited exclusions,” an analysis statement on the government’s website explains.
“The challenge is it takes a long time to develop. So even with the ban on asbestos we’re going to be seeing cases for a very long time,” Demers said.
No safe level of exposure
Even a short period of asbestos exposure can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma and the World Health Organization warns there is no safe level of exposure. This means firefighters need to take
precautions to limit exposure and mitigate risk to stay safe on scenes where asbestos is, or might be, present.
Dan Santoli, WSIB representative for the Hamilton Professional Firefighters Association, said the International Associ-
Tips for reducing asbestos exposure from The Mesothelioma Group
Ensure you have an airtight seal when putting on your respirator. Wear your respirator at all times when on scene.
Respirators that have a purple HEPA filter or an N-100, P-100, or R-100 NIOSH rating are designed to protect against asbestos fibres.
Wet parts of the building where firefighters are working to stop fibres from becoming airborne.
Ensure cleaning supplies, replacement cartridges, and replacement respirators are accessible.
Wear proper personal protective equipment
Avoid handling dry dust on scene.
Never handle asbestos-containing materials.
Shower and change into clean clothes after a fire while still on site.
Ask your supervisor about specialized cleaning procedures, like NFPA 1851.
ation of Fire Fighters is on top of the issue and that reducing exposure is “the first line of defense.”
“That’s what we’re doing in Hamilton right now and that’s what the IAFF has been pushing for the last four or five years,” Santoli said.
Hamilton – after the fire
“The risks associated with that are primarily after the fire has stopped, when people may be less protected,” said Demers.
Following the St. Peter’s fire, any Hamilton firefighters that had insulation on their gear were rinsed off immediately to reduce further asbestos exposure risks.
“That’s what we did at the St. Peter’s fire. We ensured that any members that had a lot of insulation on their gear, that was rinsed off,” Santoli said. “[Firefighters] that were covered in insulation were rinsed down right on scene.”
Firefighters are to “land and leave” wearing their SCBA, he said, with it on during the entire process.
“If you’re dealing in an area with asbestos, or an area where you might think there is asbestos, they key to it is to keep all your protective equipment on, gloves, flash hoods, bunker gear, your mask –your mask should never, ever come off because asbestos fibres are so small that breathing them in they embed into the lining of your lungs and that’s where you get either mesothelioma or asbestosis.”
Santoli said the department’s health and safety committee has pushed to get an extra set of gear for every firefighter. Each member now has two sets of bunker gear,
two flash hoods and two sets of gloves. Each fire station also has its own extractor to clean dirty gear when crews return from a call.
“Once a guy goes to a fire he’s to come back to the station, throw his dirty gear in the extractor, put his clean gear on, take a shower, change into fresh clothes,” Santoli said. “Because if you go to another fire that night you are putting on clean stuff, it’s not the stuff you just came back in that’s soaked in soot and asbestos.”
“The key is if you’re covered in debris from the fire take your gear off with your mask on or wash yourself down. If you wash yourself down, a lot of times the fibres will just wash down off of the gear.”
Santoli said that majority of Hamilton firefighters clean their gear and abide by these procedures like it’s second nature.
“I see that when they come back from a fire the first thing they do is
Cancer isn’t gone yet, but I think you’ll see the numbers start to decline
they throw their bunker gear in the extractor and they get it cleaned,” Santoli said. “When you embed it in a new hire, they take that and continually do it for the next 30 years of their career.”
About half of the department’s 530 members have less than seven years experience on the job each.
“Thirty years ago, we would go to a fire, come back and start eating a meal – you wouldn’t clean. You’d have soot on your face and on your hands,” Santoli said. “Well that’s all being pushed aside now.”
“Cancer isn’t gone yet, but I think you’ll see the numbers start to decline as more and more of the new recruits use these new reducing exposure techniques.”
Today, fire departments across Canada are focusing on firefighter health and safety, and this includes asbestos exposure prevention and reduction techniques. Although not every department’s methods are the same, any efforts to reduce exposure will go a long way in fighting asbestos-related cancers.
“Early detection and reducing exposures goes a long way to stopping getting cancer as a firefighter,” Santoli said.
Following exposure to carcinogenic materials like asbestos, and other harmful substances, firefighters should be rinsed off in their gear immediately to reduce health risks.
MICHAEL COGHLAN/ FLICKR
Labour relations
A round-up of the OAFC Hicks
Morley 2018 Labour Relations Seminar.
By Lauren Scott
Senior fire officials and human resources professionals gathered to discuss labour challenges, diversity and changes to legislation at the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs’ (OAFC) Labour Relations Seminar in January. The seminar was presented in partnership with labour and employment law firm Hicks Morley from Jan. 17-18 in Toronto.
Every province in Canada was represented at the conference, said OAFC president Stephen Hernen when addressing the room during opening remarks on Jan. 17.
The seminar sessions on Jan. 17 began with fire, police and EMS bargaining trends presented by Hicks Morley lawyers Julia Nanos, Stephanie Jeronimo, John Saunders, Michael Kennedy and Mark Mason.
Hicks Morley’s Amanda Hunter explained new changes resulting from Bill 148, called the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, which was much contested by Ontario fire service leaders when it was initially released due to paid-on call provisions that would have seen costs rise dramatically for volunteer departments.
Hunter broke down the bill, explaining new changes, ranging from emergency personal leave to scheduling concerns for on-call workers. She said there is a “three-hour rule” that requires employers to pay employees for three hours of work when they are on call, unless they are on call to provide an essential public service – like fire fighting. On-call firefighters will not be paid for being on call if they do not need to respond (like in the case of volunteer firefighters who are only compensated if they choose to respond to a call), however, if they do answer a call that takes under three hours, they will be paid for three hours of work.
At the time of the seminar, Hunter said there are no scheduling provisions for fire chiefs, who are often expected to be on-call 24-7.
Belleville Deputy Chief Mark MacDonald, North Bay Fire Chief Jason Whiteley, human resources manager for the City of Belleville Tim Osborne, and Toni Harrington of event sponsor Homewood Health participated in a PTSD and chronic mental stress panel moderated by Hicks Morley lawyer Hossein Moghtaderi. Moghtaderi provided the panellists with examples of scenarios involving PTSD claims, each discussing how they would apply the presumptive PTSD legislation to the scenario.
The legislation states that if a first responder is diagnosed with PTSD then it is assumed to be a work-related occupational injury that would make them eligible for WSIB benefits and supports. On Jan. 1, chronic mental stress was also added to the legislation.
Every province in Canada was represented at the conference, shared OAFC president Stephen Hernen.
Lawyers Michael Kennedy and Allison E. MacIsaac gave a presentation on legislative changes and recent arbitrations that looked at cases from fire services across Canada. Keynote speaker Lisa Mattam of The Mattam Group, a consulting firm that advises organizations on issues of leadership and diversity, spoke to officials about challenging unconscious bias.
Mattam said that everyone is inherently biased, which she said is a natural human trait – but leaders must learn to overcome bias so they do not subconsciously overlook quality employees.
She discussed ways that community leaders can challenge their biases, like having a diverse panel of interviewers when hiring and omitting names from the top of resumes during initial selection to focus on the skills over the person.
Mattam encouraged attendees to make a conscious effort to combat unconscious bias by questioning themselves, questioning others, and creating practical
Bill 148
Amanda Hunter explained changes to legislation brought about by the Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, provisions of which firefighters are exempt from as an essential public service.
systems that mitigate the impact of unconscious bias.
Changes to the annual OAFC Conference and Trade Show
The OAFC is making changes to its annual conference and trade show based on member feedback from the last two years. The event will be held in Toronto on May 3-6, with adjustments to the event format and length to better serve the interests of members.
The Trade Show will now be held at the International Centre to allow for more space and a more interactive experience. The conference programs and accommodations will be at the Delta Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre.
This year, the OAFC general meeting, including elections, is being moved to November during the 2018 Midterm Meeting.
Please visit www.oafc.on.ca/events for more information.
Tools of the trade
By Sean Kingswell
Be a hard core firefighter
Core is and always has been a buzzword in the fitness world. That being said there is often a lot of confusion about what the core actually is. A lot people think it’s their “abs”. In fact, the rectus abdominal muscles are one of a long list of muscles that make up the core. The core is essentially anything that stabilizes your spine. Everyone has core muscles on their front, back and side. Core muscles are both superficial and deep. Probably the most important core muscles are internal and make up the pelvic floor, tranversus abdominals, internal and external oblique muscles and finally rectus abdominals or the “abs.” Firefighters need to strengthen the pelvic floor as well as the transverse abdominal muscles to give us a strong base. To do this, you need to engage and pull up and in from the bottom (pelvic floor) and think about zippering up into the transversus abdominus. Most think of abs as muscles that you need to push out and down on, the exact opposite of what is necessary.
There can be a tendency with exercise to focus on “mirror muscles” – the muscles that are visible when looking in the mirror. Mirror muscles are important, but so are the ones that support them and the ones beneath them.
The core is very important for firefighters. A strong core can help prevent back injuries and is essential in times where stability is crucial such as climbing stairs or wearing your pack. Just wearing an SCBA requires core strength and good posture, regardless of whether we are moving or not. Posture can
be improved or properly maintained with good core strength. Firefighters are required to move through a variety of unnatural positions during interior fire fighting operations that will benefit from a strong core.
The body is one big kinetic chain. Whenever we transfer force, our core has to be involved. Force can be transferred from either direction, bottom to top or vice versa. Force begins when the foot makes contact with the ground, which is then transferred through the core to the upper body. The core helps to transfer force, whether you are swinging an axe or sledgehammer or pulling a ceiling.
Firefighters need to have a strong core both statically (i.e. standing) and dynamically (i.e. moving). The plank seems to be a go-to when it comes to core strengthening exercises, but there is a lot more to it than that. Plus a plank can put excessive burden on the lower back, which means it may not be the best exercise for everyone. Keep in mind a push-up also doubles as a plank.
So what else is there to consider in terms of core work? Core exercises can be specific exercises to work a core muscle or group of core muscles or they can be more of a full-body movement that works a multitude of muscles, including core. Isolation exercises like crunches are not the only way to work your core. Dynamic movements, if performed properly, can also strengthen this area. First of all, there are flexion movements. Flexion movements are when your spine bends forward, such as a situp. Unsupported flexion can be bad for the back, as these movements can be hard on the discs. Be sure not
Sean Kingswell is an experienced career firefighter, personal trainer, fitness coach and the creator of the FIRESAFECADETS program. firesafecadets@gmail.com @firesafecadets
to put your back into flexion when you squat or deadlift, remember to always lift with the legs. Unsupported flexion, especially with too much weight can be very dangerous. A crunch is a good example of supported flexion, with the back supported by the ground during flexion movements. Extension is essentially the opposite of flexion, which involves bending your spine backwards. Too much extension in distance or repetition can be dangerous as can over-weighted extension. A basic extension exercise could be lying on your stomach with arms at your side and raising your shoulders slightly off the ground, which is also called a “Superman.” Isometric core exercises do not involve core movement while you are working those muscles. So it could be an exercise where you are not moving like a plank (keeping in mind that the proper starting position for a plank is on your knees, moving up to your toes) or a movement where you are moving but the core is not, such as a kettlebell swing. Another great core movement is sideways torso flexion such as a side bend or lying heel reach. Core rotation is a movement that includes twisting, like a Russian twist or an oblique crunch, but be careful not to over rotate. Finally, composite exercises that bring multiple movements together are a great way to work your core. Although an advanced movement, a Turkish get up would be a challenging composite core exercise. The firefighter begins lying on their back with one arm raised holding a kettlebell or dumbbell. The firefighter uses the lower hand and core to push up into a kneeling position, then to standing, all while keeping the weight above the head.
A strong core is relevant to fire fighting in both injury prevention and performance. Take the necessary steps today and train to ensure you have a strong core built for the job.
A strong core can help prevent back injuries and is essential in times where stability is crucial such as climbing stairs or wearing your pack.
2A 2-in-1 tip: remember that push-ups double as planks when considering your fitness regime. Bear in mind that planks can put extra strain on the lower back.
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Dispatches
By Jennifer Grigg
Changing the conversation
During my stint as an instructor at the Ontario Fire College in Gravenhurst, one of the expectations that really impacted me was the awareness and importance of using gender neutral or gender-inclusive language in the classroom.
Once gender inclusivity is on your radar you can’t help but question many of the oldstandby-but-perhaps-outdated terms we’ve come to accept as part of the fire service culture.
As a female who has been in the fire service for over 20 years, I’ve always been referred to as “one of the guys,” and never took offence to it. For me, it was more of a sign of acceptance into this unique and tight knit brotherhood , which is ironically enough, another term likely to change at some point.
In the classroom, I was infinitely aware of my use of the term “guys” when addressing the class as a whole, because it was impressed upon all of us as representatives of the province. For example, asking a question like: “How many of you guys have ever…?” We in the fire service say that all the time. It was something I often tripped over, and would almost make the situation worse, by adding a “. . . and girls” hastily afterwards, which just brought more attention to my use of terminology. And honestly, no one ever seemed offended by it, or at least, it was never brought
The world is changing and it’s our responsibility to change with it, if not change ahead of it.
to my attention.
But this is not to say that it’s a moot point. I whole-heartedly agree with the premise of using gender-inclusive language, as it’s simply respectful to do so, especially in the fire service where teamwork is of the utmost importance. We should be placing an emphasis on inclusivity to foster the strength of the unit.
Since I returned to my volunteer fire department in December, my fellow (there’s another term) firefighters and I have had this conversation a few times. When I was asked what alternatives to use instead of “guys,” I shared that I’d heard other instructors use, “folks,” “you people” and “class.” I’ll admit, “folks” sounds somewhat country-ish or laidback, and “you people,”
depending on the tone and delivery, can come across as slightly condescending. I’m not saying I have the answers; I’m merely posing the question.
A friend in my hall, who is also an instructor at a private fire service college, said that he asks the class up front if anybody will be uncomfortable with his use of “guys,” and he says no one has taken exception to it to date.
I asked him how likely he thinks it would be that someone would feel comfortable enough to admit they were upset? People generally don’t like to be the odd one out –just food for thought.
Members in my fire department (by request of our dispatch, as I understand it) have recently transitioned from reporting the hall as “manned” to reporting it as “staffed.”
A couple of other terms from the good old days that have come up in our discussions are:
Firemen – This one is a pet peeve of mine and I have a beloved friend who can’t seem to stop using it after 40 years of service to our department.
Man door – Hmmmm, maybe person door? This was one I brought up to the group.
Man down alarm – A captain in our hall questioned this one. I was actually surprised that I hadn’t thought of it. A point for you, buddy.
Brotherhood – Are we women included as sisters in the “brotherhood?” Or should we just refer to it as the “hood” now?
I’m sure there are many more outdated terms we continue to use. I invite you to tweet me or tag me on Facebook with anything you come up with.
It’s 2018 and the fire service is continuing to see a greater level of diversity among it’s ranks. This is not about giving anyone or any group special treatment, it’s simply about respect, good ethics and positive interpersonal skills.
For those of you in training roles, in officer positions, and quite frankly everyone in the fire service, when you’re addressing the group, I respectfully request that you keep in mind that your audience is no longer strictly “guys”.
With that being said, it’s not merely a male/female, man/ woman dichotomy anymore. I’m sure there are transgender and gender non-binary members in our fire service as well, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that developing and using gender-inclusive language means including everyone.
The world is changing and it’s our responsibility to change with it, if not change ahead of it.
Jennifer Grigg has been a volunteer with the Township of Georgian Bay Fire Department in Ontario since 1997. jhook0312@yahoo.ca @georgianbayjen
Front seat
By Jason Clark
Jason Clark has been a volunteer firefighter in southwestern Ontario since 2007. Having recently made the transition to captain from firefighter, Clark has a new perspective on riding in the front seat. jaceclark71@gmail.com @jacejclark
Fighting communication break down
No one likes to see an ‘out of service’ tag on broken down items that are awaiting repair, especially in the fire service. Sometimes tools or apparatus are taken off the line due to lack of maintenance, an overlooked issue or an unforeseen problem. Either way, the equipment needs to be fixed quickly and efficiently to be placed back into service ASAP.
Communication is something we can’t physically hang an ‘out of service’ tag on, but communication can still be broken. I’m not specifically speaking about apparatus radios or portable radios, but communication in general, and the many scenarios we may find ourselves communicating with various groups.
I’ve found that communication is one of the first things that can break down on the fire scene, in an emergency response or even at the station. As a company officer, you may find yourself communicating with many different people. Your crew, dispatch and chief officers all want to be kept in the know when it comes to what you are doing or where you are.
Proper communication seems so simple, so why do we lose communication or fail to communicate effectively with our colleagues, superiors or others?
To some extent, communication breakdown can be attributed to our technology, like portable radios, as well as the physical spot we keep our radio on our gear. Radios can
also get bumped while on the way to a scene or getting out of an apparatus, causing it to switch channels. I’ve found that certain weather conditions and geographical areas can even have negative effects on our digital simulcast system, causing patchy service and unreadable transmissions in some circumstances. Returning to the truck to use the apparatus radio or relaying info to another unit can be a solution to this issue.
One of the great things with our radio system is that we can transmit across the entire county (which is great for mutual aid responses) and I can hear every other unit clear as a bell. However, during major weather events when multiple emergencies, such as downed hydro wires and motor vehicle collisions, are happening all at once, airtime is at a premium. I may turn on my radio to let dispatch know
we are responding only to have unknowingly interrupted another truck or be interrupted by another unit responding 40 kilometres away. The best solution is to be clear and concise and know the address and cross streets before jumping on the truck.
I’m not a radio guru or communication expert by any means, but I can tell by the tone of a dispatcher’s voice if they have a lot on their plate. I went to clear my truck off a call once, only to be told by dispatch very firmly that the incident commander had done that several seconds prior on another radio channel. I didn’t know this information as the incident commander and myself didn’t communicate with each other, which would be a simple fix in the future. I was also unaware that there was a structure fire happening in another county.
But what about
communication within the station? Where are the places do we go wrong here?
Here’s an example: If I were to bring a 20 litre jug of diesel up to a gasoline powered chainsaw to fill, I would be sent back to get about a cup of gasoline and then back to boot school to go over some much needed basic training. Communication is similar to the saw scenario that it’s a lot about bringing the right information at the right time, and in the correct quantity.
As a new captain, we are the first line of communication for our firefighters when they have questions. So instead of grabbing that incorrect fuel (or information) and setting both the firefighter and yourself up for failure, captains should try a different approach. It is okay to say you aren’t sure or you don’t know; it’s not okay to leave it at that and walk away. Go and source out the information for yourself from an operational guideline, user manual or ask another officer. Then relay that information with your crewmembers and try not to read the entire manual word for word.
Becoming a better communicator is an ongoing skill set that can always be strengthened. If you do find yourself in a situation where communication is a problem, it needs to be addressed and fixed immediately. Broken communication or broken tools do not benefit our fellow members or to our public, so don’t let communication sit on a shelf with an ‘out of service’ tag gathering dust.
Clark says radio systems can transmit across the entire county, which allows for better communication during mutual aid responses.
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