USFA Releases Preparedness Report for Extreme Weather, Natural Disasters
The United States Fire Administration has released a new technical report titled Fire Department Preparedness for Extreme Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters, which examines the impact of extreme weather and natural disasters on the fire service and the types of service calls most likely to arise as a result of these disasters.
"Firefighters continue to be called upon to respond to many types of incidents, disasters, and situations--in all kinds of weather, day and night," said U.S. Fire Administrator Greg Cade. "Our country's fire service is an amazing cadre of specially trained individuals whom the public relies on during emergencies--including extreme weather and natural disasters. This requires all firefighters to be prepared to respond in the most challenging conditions."
The report also addresses equipment and planning needed in order to be prepared. Safety, mutual aid, shift management, resource identification, logistics, and other related issues are discussed, along with examples from case studies of fire departments that have learned from experience what can happen. The report provides information fire departments can use to enhance their level of preparedness and ensure greater safety the next time disaster strikes.
"September is again the nation's Preparedness Month," continued Cade. "The USFA is pleased to provide this critical information in support of not only this important Department of Homeland Security initiative but also to continue our mission of ensuring the fire service is capable of responding to any and all emergencies, regardless of scope."
To view the report in its entirety, visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/tr_162.pdf.