When the lives of victims and firefighters are on the line, having the right equipment can be the difference between life and death. Because these situations present variables that are often difficult to plan for, firefighters need to be prepared for anything. From illnesses to hazardous materials to people needing to be restrained, there are many types of disaster equipment that can help firefighters do the best possible job of protecting themselves and others.
One of the biggest hazards on the scene of a disaster is the threat of contagious disease. In today's world where people come and go from around the globe, the ease of which contagious diseases are spread has never been stronger. And with the threat of terrorist attacks and biological terrorism, the risk is even greater. Some of the most essential pieces of equipment any truck can have as part of its rolling stock are influenza kits. Available in one or four person packs, these kits allow firefighters the chance to protect themselves and the public from the spread of disease. Containing such essentials as respirator masks, gloves, goggles, boot covers and more these kits provide potentially life-saving protection for citizens or those first responders forced to venture into areas where contamination is present.
When disasters happen, some people handle it better than others. When victims panic and become combative with first responders, it sometimes becomes necessary to have equipment available to restrain them for both their protection and the protection of others. Wrist retainers, while they can be used on combative patients, are usually recommended for those who are weak and need to be stabilized during transport. The retainers use Velcro straps that wrap around a person's wrists, and have an adjustable cord allowing rescue personnel to control the patient's arms while they are being loaded and transported. By using these, both the patient and responder are better protected against further injury.
For victims who have possible back injuries, keeping them immobilized is of the utmost importance. Having a backboard is essential in these situations, and those firefighting departments who have a Wauk Rolling Backboard give themselves the chance to help victims without hurting themselves. Similar to a dolly, the backboard allows a patient to be rolled rather than carried. This increases the patient's safety as well as the responder's by eliminating the chance for back injuries to the rescuer. With a 500 pound capacity and compatibility with MRI and X-ray imaging, it's one piece of equipment no truck should be without.
By having these essential pieces of equipment with them on scene, firefighters and first responders will have the ability to make the scene as safe as possible.
