|
SLN firefighters keep skills
sharp
Salina, Kan., (September
30, 2009) - Aircraft Rescue Firefighter, Matt Rittel familiarizes himself
with equipment on a Salina Fire Department ambulance during the Airport Authority's
ride along program.
"In the event of an actual emergency seconds count," said Manager
of Operations David "Gunner" Wiles. "Something as
simple as knowing where the equipment is located in the ambulance expedites
the treatment at the scene and saves lives."
The program was designed for the ARFF members of the airport to learn and
work with the local fire department. Since the airport receives few
medical calls, it keeps their skills sharp. The groups get to know
one another not only on a professional level but a personal one as well.
"I like getting to know the personnel on the city side and training
with them," said Rittel. "I really enjoyed getting more
experience in patient contact and helping in actual emergencies."
There are three phases to the program. The first was to ride along
with the fire inspectors, the second is the medical portion, and the third
and sometimes most difficult part of the program will be to ride along on
the fire apparatus.
"It's all about us knowing them and them knowing us," said
Wiles. "The citizens do not care what uniform the person who is
helping them is wearing in their time of need."
|
