National Fire Fighter Near-Miss Reporting System: Get Physical

Focusing onfirefighter healthand wellness is one key to longevity in the fire service, and longevity is what we all seek. Whether that longevity is for a long and healthy time in the fire service or for a long and healthy life after we have hung up our helmet for the last time; wellness is an integral part in getting us to enjoy life.This week’s featured reportcontinues to make the case to ensure you are looking out for others by looking out for yourself.

“In my department, all members must complete their annual physical by the end of the calendar year or that person’s turnout gear is secured and they cannot work, respond on emergency calls, or attend any training until their annual physical is complete…My physical went well (as it had in past years) up to the point of my stress test. The doctor conducting the stress test was not happy with the results and prohibited me from responding until I had consulted with a cardiologist.

I consulted with a cardiologist that evening and two days later was in the hospital where I underwent a cardiac catheterization. During the catheterization, a 95% blockage of my right coronary artery was found and a stint was placed.

I was in complete disbelief! I thought, I have never had ANY symptoms…”

What is that old expression, “You never see the bullet that kills you?” The silent killer, cardiovascular disease, takes more firefighters each year than vehicle collisions, fires ,or any other factor. We are now just gathering and assessing data on the other dirty little secret of the profession, cancer. Either way, the message is clear; early detection saves lives. Once you have read the entire accountHERE, consider the following:

1. When was your last physical?
2. If you participate in a department sponsored program, do you find ways to avoid or prolong when you’re physical is conducted?
3. What is the follow-up procedure if problems are discovered during your routine exam?
4. If your department does not require a physical, do you seek one using your personal health coverage?
5. Have you discussed with your personal physician the rigors of188金博网网址多少and emergency work?

Do you have a medically related near miss to share? Submit your report towww.firefighternearmiss.comtoday so everyone goes home tomorrow.

Note: The questions posed by the reviewers are designed to generate discussion and thought in the name of promoting firefighter safety. They are not intended to pass judgment on the actions and performance of individuals in the reports.