The IAFF reminds all affiliates to participate in second annual International Fire Fighter Safety Stand Down, beginning Wednesday, June 21, 2006, and continuing until all shifts have been completed.
“While fire fighter safety must be part of everyday life in the fire service, the Safety Stand Down raises awareness of the issue,” says IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger.
The International Association of Fire Fighters is urging its affiliates in the United States and Canada and their fire departments to suspend all non-emergency activity and instead focus entirely on fire fighter safety. “Fire fighters work in a dangerous profession where injuries and death are a part of the job, but we can and must do more to reduce the risks,” says President Schaitberger.
This year’s event will focus on emergency vehicle safety in particular. The IAFF has partnered with the U.S. Fire Administration to develop a comprehensive emergency vehicle safety program designed to give fire fighters a greater awareness of safety issues when riding on fire apparatus and operating at roadway emergency scenes.
Fire departments across the United States and Canada are encouraged to check all apparatus and equipment, discuss health and safety regulations, review fire ground safety issues and take stock of training exercises and fitness goals. Click here for a recommended activity schedule for the 2006 International Fire Fighter Safety Stand Down. Additional information is also available on the IAFC web site.