Fire/EMS

Pittsburgh – Emergency medical services workers whose shifts last longer than 12 hours have double the risk of an occupational injury or illness, according to a study from the University of Pittsburgh.

Montreal – Emergency dispatchers who work at 911 call centers face a variety of physical and mental challenges in a high-stress environment, according to a study conducted by scientific research organization IRSST.

Washington – An updated manual from OSHA is intended to improve safety for emergency responders by informing them about various building features and designs.

New York – A new report compiles accounts from 9/11 responders recalling their experiences responding to the attacks and, later, managing their World Trade Center-related health conditions.

Greenbelt, MD – The National Volunteer Fire Council will use newly awarded grant money to create a “culture of knowledge and safety” among emergency service personnel and address emerging safety and health issues, the organization recently announced.

Atlanta – Firefighters who battle wildfires from planes and helicopters need to adhere to strict safety guidelines, researchers urge in a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Cincinnati – Firefighters have an elevated risk for several major cancers, and black and Hispanic firefighters are at risk for even more types of the disease, according to research from NIOSH.

Quincy, MA – To mark International Fire/EMS Safety and Health Week (June 14-20), the National Fire Protection Association has created an interactive quiz for firefighters, emergency medical technicians and other fire service workers.

New York – Emergency medical workers have endured chronic health conditions as a result of aiding victims of the 2001 World Trade Center terrorist attack, indicates a study from the New York City Fire Department and Montefiore Medical Center.

Emmitsburg, MD – The number of on-duty firefighter deaths and injuries has changed little over the past 40 years, prompted by a culture in which firefighters believe they are expected to sacrifice their own safety to save others, according to a new report from the U.S. Fire Administration and the International Association of Fire Chiefs.