Proper Rehab on the Emergency Scene!

“REHAB” – a word that’s both prized and despised by most first responders, especially, firefighters. Why? Simply put, because it takes them away from the job they were doing. Prized? Because you get a quick breather, a cold drink and, if you’re lucky, a towel. This old model of rehab comes from the age when we told firefighters who were having difficulties dealing with some of the tragedy and trauma, to “Suck it up!” That command is no longer appropriate, and neither is poor or even incorrect rehab!

My guest, Erica Wood, is a veteran firefighter and paramedic. And one of her greatest concerns is the well-being of emergency personnel; both those she works with and in the greater fire service, as well. In this podcast, Erica discusses the importance of proper rehab for emergency workers who are fighting a major fire, dealing with a structural collapse, mitigating a HAZMAT incident or other major emergencies.

For example, Erica explains that drinking an ice-cold drink after exiting a building where you had been fighting fire, pulling down walls and ceilings, all while wearing all your bunker gear and keeping that heat inside you, is not a healthy idea! Neither is the pizza, hot dogs and hamburgers that the friendly guy from the burger joint in town, sends over!

Listen, as Erica explains what the real purpose of on-scene rehab is supposed to be about and the correct ways to carry it all out. One of most important things to remember is that rehab is not a punitive measure; it’s sole purpose is to care for the well-being of every emergency worker on the scene. Tune in and you may be pleasantly surprised.

Find “5-Alarm Task Force” on our website, www.dalmatianproductions.tv or on your favorite podcast platform. Stay Safe & Stay Well!