For this week’s assignment, I chose to dive into the discussion lists and boards focusing on the fire service. Specifically the websites and posts are found on these websites.
One of the top websites or discussion lists read within my field include
Firefighter Close Calls (https://www.firefighterclosecalls.com/secret.php)
Statter911(https://www.statter911.com/)
Firehouse.com (https://www.firehouse.com/)
I found these websites and discussion boards through a simple search on the Internet. I originally heard about these forums and discussion boards through fellow firefighters at work, sharing ideas and spreading knowledge relating to our job. Large portions of the discussions talk about firefighter safety as well studying tactics and researching major incidents. On average, 100 firefighters in the U.S. die every year from doing the job. Half of the fatalities result from heart attacks, so a big discussion ties into firefighter health and safety.
Within Firefighter Close Calls, there are countless numbers of articles and posts discussing anonymous close calls in the fire service and potential errors made on calls. The idea behind the secret list is that is really is no secret to begin with. The other idea of the website is that members that post can remain anonymous in order to minimize individual feedback or negative comments that might be made linking back to a specific fire department. Sharing close call stories with other members of the fire service helps spread safety awareness and other ideas that can help prevent the loss of life for firefighters.
Both Statter911 and Firehouse.com are major websites known throughout the fire service that share worldwide news and discussions relating to the fire service. Such topics include training, safety, leadership as well as incorporating technology into the fire service today. With the widespread use of the Internet today, ideas can be shared instantaneously all across the globe. Sharing videos and discussing tactics with other firefighters around the country as well as globally helps increase our knowledge of doing the job. Everyone can benefit from learning from other firefighters and possibly learning a new skill or a more efficient way to complete a task on the fire ground can be monumental.
Overall, I find a majority of the topics useful to me because they all tie into my job. All in all, I would have to say firefighter health and safety rates the highest in my book. I say this because I want to do my job to the best of my abilities, but also remain safe. The job of being a firefighter can be dangerous and remaining safe or instilling safe practices reduces injuries or fatalities. If I can come home at the end of my shift without getting injured or killed means that I did a good job and can come home and spend time with my family and friends.