From the Eastford Independent Fire Co.
In addition to responding for emergency 911 calls and weekly drills, we are always in a state of learning. Below are mandatory drills and classes attended. The EIFC responded to 20 emergencies in January.
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CLASS — Ten participated in a mandatory Food Awareness and Safety Training provided by the Northeast District Department of Health (NDDH). Food preparation and what we need to know about food safety which allows us to better serve our department and personal activities safely.
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CLASS — Members participated in, and certified, in Adult Mental Health First Aid USA, sponsored by the National Council for Behavioral Health. The eight-hour course taught participants the skills for providing initial help to someone experiencing a metal health or substance use challenge and follow-up skills for traumatic events.
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DRILL — Man vs. Machine: Snow Blowers/Lawn Mowers — A snow shovel or lawn rake are reliable methods for taking care of snow and/or grass removal. Often, people turn to snow blowers and power-generated lawn mowers to get the job done with minimal effort. However, these pieces of equipment are heavy machines that need to be handled properly to make removal efforts effective, efficient, and safe. Through the generosity of member Marvin Neely, owner of Yankee Sales and Service, members practiced on actual machines on how to disengage a person’s limb entangled in the machine as safely as possible to save the limb. High on the list of safety tips is to read and understand the operation manual, and regularly maintain the equipment. Approximately 80,000 serious injuries each year between lawn mower and snow blower use/misuse are reported. Safety tips include aiming the blower chute in a safe direction, avoid carbon monoxide build-up in enclosed spaces, clear blower after cooling the equipment thoroughly of any debris to reduce the risk of fire, look for small objects and rocks prior to use, keep children and pets away from area, and wearing appropriate protective clothing and eyewear. Photos of the training are pictured with this article.
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DRILL: Airborne/Bloodborne Pathogens, Harassment/Bullying, HIPAA
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DRILL: Hypothermia – How to recognize and treat cold water/cold temperature exposure due to hypothermia.
It is budgetary preparation time for the EIFC. All organizations are experiencing challenging financial constraints with anticipated budget cuts. The EIFC is your driving force in dedication and commitment to the safety of the residents of Eastford. We thank you for your generous donations. As a 100-percent volunteer organization since 1942, we rely heavily on the support of the town’s residents and especially the Board of Selectmen in understanding, asking questions, clarifying the regulations and standards of OSHA and NFPA. Donations can be sent to: EIFC, P.O. Box 333, Eastford, CT 06242, Memo Line: General Donation or Renovation Project.
Spring is right around the corner. An annual town-wide cleaning of the town’s road is usually scheduled. You can help us by clearing entrances and walkways to your home. Please replace or get free green reflective house numbers and signs that can easily be seen from the road. This is especially critical if you have multi-house entryways. Each residence should have its own sign. Signs and numbers can be obtained any Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Cleaning around the signs and entries will aid us tremendously in providing quick and efficient response for your emergency needs.