Wed 26 Nov 2008
LAFD
Posted by admin under informational
The Los Angeles Fire Department was obviously very busy this last month with the numerous wild fires made all the more dangerous by dry and hot weather as well as really fast winds. And it was this week, in a seminar that I attended near Santa Monica, that I learned a little something about LAFD protocols. *11/30/2008 EDIT: Received a comment from LAFD PR that clarifies the information of this post. It was very nice of them to send the correction, and it was also interesting to see who comes across this little blog.*
Such a truth really put what fire fighters go through in perspective for me. And it really drove home what our 17-year old veteran said about the dedicated: “Some of them just breathe this stuff. It just moves them to help people.” I guess no matter the outcome…no matter what.
November 26th, 2008 at 10:35 pm
Thanks for your interest in the Los Angeles Fire Department and your kind words regarding our endeavors.
Though the 17 year veteran firefighter spoke to your group with passion, some of his/her words may have been misconstrued.
Witnessing death is a frank reality for members of the LAFD.
While particularly troubling incidents may bring forth on- or off-site group discussion, individual counseling or request/concurrence for stress related leave and medical/wellness follow-up similar to what you mention, there is no instant three day leave granted to members of the LAFD upon witnessing death.
I hope this information helps. If you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact LAFD Behavioral Health staff directly at: (213) 485-9431.
Respectfully Yours in Safety and Service,
Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department