TO: All Personnel
FROM: Fire Chief John Vance
RE: Various EMS Issues / Stock Issues
DATE: July 28, 2009
Here are a few EMS issues that need your immediate attention:
1. Diltiazem & Succinylcholine are to be changed out every 30 days on the 1st of the month, not every 60 days. This is a quality control issue. The cost to replace these meds are minimal compared to having a med with a compromised efficacy.
2. Manual intraosseous needles will be placed on both of the medic units (when they are returned to service!). These needles will most likely be placed on one of the shelves in the patient compartment of the truck. The needles are being placed on the truck to be used as a "back up" option should the battery powered EZ-IO fail for some reason. These needles should not be removed from the apparatus. They are there in case there is an equipment failure and we need to attain intraosseous access in a critical patient.
3. EMS stock (equipment & supplies in the EMS store room and the yellow cart) is for Harris Fire Department use only. We are working on system that will track our inventory better. In the mean time I am counting on everyone to be “on the honor system” and use supplies purchased by the department for official use only. Taking any kind of stock for any use other than restocking for emergency calls for service will be considered theft from the fire department.
4. Please see the adjustment in the scope of practice for non-lead personnel posted on the memo boards.
Thank you for your attention when it comes to these very important matters.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
PEP CLASS DATES
There will be a PEP class (taking the place of PALS) on the following dates:
July 9 & 10
or
July 23 & 24
Classes will run from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM and are two days long. Please sign up with Captain Yoder for one of the two classes (they are mandatory for all ALS providers).
They will be held at the Memorial Hospital Education Facility (THE HUT).
Thanks,
Chief Vance
July 9 & 10
or
July 23 & 24
Classes will run from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM and are two days long. Please sign up with Captain Yoder for one of the two classes (they are mandatory for all ALS providers).
They will be held at the Memorial Hospital Education Facility (THE HUT).
Thanks,
Chief Vance
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Territory Update
I just wanted to pass on to everyone that we had a very productive meeting last week with the Senior Staff of the Fire Territory. We filled up the white board twice with issues and items that we need to work on in order to make this new department a success.
The good news is that all of the items are either very attainable or minor hurdles to overcome in the great scheme of things. We discussed having the proper focus of providing the very best service for the people that we are sworn to protect, and that focus REALLY puts it all into perspective.
The really great news is that with the talent and abilities of the people of this new department, there isn't really anything that we can not accomplish!
As we begin to bring these departments together, I ask that the number one item on YOUR agenda is to ask "how can we provide the very best service to the entire community that we serve". Putting forth our energy and efforts into making a positive outcome for the those who are having a bad day (and making it better) will really make a difference. Especially when we combine the resources and staff on this new department!
It is an exciting time for all of us with a lot going on. I ask you to share any concerns, comments and ideas with your Battalion Chief or myself.
The good news is that all of the items are either very attainable or minor hurdles to overcome in the great scheme of things. We discussed having the proper focus of providing the very best service for the people that we are sworn to protect, and that focus REALLY puts it all into perspective.
The really great news is that with the talent and abilities of the people of this new department, there isn't really anything that we can not accomplish!
As we begin to bring these departments together, I ask that the number one item on YOUR agenda is to ask "how can we provide the very best service to the entire community that we serve". Putting forth our energy and efforts into making a positive outcome for the those who are having a bad day (and making it better) will really make a difference. Especially when we combine the resources and staff on this new department!
It is an exciting time for all of us with a lot going on. I ask you to share any concerns, comments and ideas with your Battalion Chief or myself.
Assignments
For the Fire Chief.....
Effective immediately Jim Williams has been assigned as the Station Officer at Station 2 / A-Shift. Jim has proven himself to be a strong Acting Company Officer on 441 and has prepared himself with the necessary education from Southwest Michigan College and the necessary certifications. I am confident that with his performance in the last promotional process that he will do a great job. Jim will carry the rank of Lieutenant.
Bob Price has been assigned as the Company Officer / Lieutenant of Station 1 / A-Shift. Having Bob in this position will enable better command and control of company level operations at Station / A-Shift and will enhance the safety and mentoring of Firefighters. Bob will continue all of his other duties outside of the regular assignment (SCBA’s, etc).
A strong officer corps is essential to the growth and survival of Firefighters and the entire department. I ask that you give Lieutenant Williams and Lieutenant Price your full support, as you always have with other officers that work hard to provide command and leadership for the troops.
If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to see me.
Effective immediately Jim Williams has been assigned as the Station Officer at Station 2 / A-Shift. Jim has proven himself to be a strong Acting Company Officer on 441 and has prepared himself with the necessary education from Southwest Michigan College and the necessary certifications. I am confident that with his performance in the last promotional process that he will do a great job. Jim will carry the rank of Lieutenant.
Bob Price has been assigned as the Company Officer / Lieutenant of Station 1 / A-Shift. Having Bob in this position will enable better command and control of company level operations at Station / A-Shift and will enhance the safety and mentoring of Firefighters. Bob will continue all of his other duties outside of the regular assignment (SCBA’s, etc).
A strong officer corps is essential to the growth and survival of Firefighters and the entire department. I ask that you give Lieutenant Williams and Lieutenant Price your full support, as you always have with other officers that work hard to provide command and leadership for the troops.
If you have any questions regarding this, please feel free to see me.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
TRIVIA FOR GOOD CAUSE
Are you often told you’re full of useless knowledge?
If so, then we want you!!!
Join us for a fun filled evening of trivia to benefit O’Hana Heritage Foundation and A Rosie Place!
When: Friday, June 12, 2009
Doors open at 6pm, game starts promptly at 7pm
Where: Firefighter’s Union Hall, 4025 Lincoln Way West, SB
Cost: $100 per table of 10 players
Raffles available throughout the night too!
Bring your own tailgate food to share.
Beer, mixed drinks, soda and water will be available for purchase. (Please no outside beverages)
Reserve your table today by contacting Chris Haas at 273-4612 or Donna O’Hara at 288-8608. $50 holds your table.
Learn more about O’Hana Heritage Foundation and
A Rosie Place at www.ohanaheritage.org
If so, then we want you!!!
Join us for a fun filled evening of trivia to benefit O’Hana Heritage Foundation and A Rosie Place!
When: Friday, June 12, 2009
Doors open at 6pm, game starts promptly at 7pm
Where: Firefighter’s Union Hall, 4025 Lincoln Way West, SB
Cost: $100 per table of 10 players
Raffles available throughout the night too!
Bring your own tailgate food to share.
Beer, mixed drinks, soda and water will be available for purchase. (Please no outside beverages)
Reserve your table today by contacting Chris Haas at 273-4612 or Donna O’Hara at 288-8608. $50 holds your table.
Learn more about O’Hana Heritage Foundation and
A Rosie Place at www.ohanaheritage.org
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
SUMMER CAMP HELP NEEDED
Firefighters, We Need Your Help! A Summer Camp for Aspiring Firefighters!
The Harris Township Fire Department is still accepting applications for its 5th annual Fire Camp. The camp will run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 15-19, 2009. We currently have 21 campers.
Harris Township Fire Camp is an excellent opportunity that allows children to experience and understand what a Firefighter / EMT does on a regular basis. This program is targeted for children aged 10 – 13 years of age and the activities will be directed accordingly. Campers will actually participate “hands on” with equipment and have the opportunity to learn skills while performing at mock fire and rescue situations. It is the mission of our instructors to inspire the participants and to teach them teambuilding and valuable life saving skills while having fun.
It is important to understand that additional help will be needed. The on-duty crew will be asked to help out, but we cannot rely on their presence. Each day will have its own teambuilding skill such as a bucket brigade, firefighter combat challenge, packaging patients, or “first water”.
To help out, firefighters should sign up at station 1 on the Fire Camp Sign-up Sheet. The Fire Camp Sign-up Sheet will have the all 5 days’ agendas. Please fill in as best as possible
If you have any questions, contact Battalion Chief Justin Stopczynski (574)-532-7884. Email: jstopczynski@sbcglobal.net
The Harris Township Fire Department is still accepting applications for its 5th annual Fire Camp. The camp will run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 15-19, 2009. We currently have 21 campers.
Harris Township Fire Camp is an excellent opportunity that allows children to experience and understand what a Firefighter / EMT does on a regular basis. This program is targeted for children aged 10 – 13 years of age and the activities will be directed accordingly. Campers will actually participate “hands on” with equipment and have the opportunity to learn skills while performing at mock fire and rescue situations. It is the mission of our instructors to inspire the participants and to teach them teambuilding and valuable life saving skills while having fun.
It is important to understand that additional help will be needed. The on-duty crew will be asked to help out, but we cannot rely on their presence. Each day will have its own teambuilding skill such as a bucket brigade, firefighter combat challenge, packaging patients, or “first water”.
To help out, firefighters should sign up at station 1 on the Fire Camp Sign-up Sheet. The Fire Camp Sign-up Sheet will have the all 5 days’ agendas. Please fill in as best as possible
If you have any questions, contact Battalion Chief Justin Stopczynski (574)-532-7884. Email: jstopczynski@sbcglobal.net
Monday, June 1, 2009
FREE Cardiac Screening at Memorial
Special Session for Fire Fighters • July 30 • 5 – 9 p.m.
Find out if you may be at risk for having
a stroke or heart attack in this FREE screening.
• Carotid artery screening
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
• Blood pressure
• ABI
• Nurse consultation
Screenings are intended for patients with diabetes, hypertension, leg pain with walking or exercise, high cholesterol, a smoking history, high risk professions, or slow-healing wounds.
Physicians will be notified of any abnormal results from the screening. Space is limited and reservations are required. To make an appointment, call the Memorial
Health Discovery Center at 574-647-6880.
Find out if you may be at risk for having
a stroke or heart attack in this FREE screening.
• Carotid artery screening
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
• Blood pressure
• ABI
• Nurse consultation
Screenings are intended for patients with diabetes, hypertension, leg pain with walking or exercise, high cholesterol, a smoking history, high risk professions, or slow-healing wounds.
Physicians will be notified of any abnormal results from the screening. Space is limited and reservations are required. To make an appointment, call the Memorial
Health Discovery Center at 574-647-6880.
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