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Indianapolis, Indiana - September
2002
The Washington Twp. Fire Department strives to be a leader when it comes
to the health and safety of its personnel. They monitor the fitness of
their firefighters closely to prevent the leading causes of death - heart
and lung disease.
Dedicated to Safety
Fire Chief
Joe Anderson
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Fire Chief Joe Anderson believes that, "the more fit the firefighter
the better they will perform on the fireground and the safer the fireground
will be for the firefighter and his or her coworkers." Deputy
Chief Robin Nicoson explained that a firefighter's job is centered
around three areas: Rescue, Fire Control, and Property Conservation.
As the chief of risk management, Nicoson is dedicated to the safety
of the firefighter while carrying out these duties. This is accomplished
by following these departmental goals: (1) Obtaining the best firefighting
equipment possible; (2) Obtaining the best fire apparatus possible;
(3) Providing the best training possible; (4) Providing the most thorough
annual physicals available; (5) Providing rehabilitation at the fire
scene; and (6) Maintaining fitness standards for all personnel. |
The average age of death of firefighters nationally is 62, whereas,
it is in the 70's for the general population. "I'm for anything
that will prolong the productivity and life expectancy of our people,"
states Nicoson. |
Fitness is a Priority
The Washington Twp. Fire Department has developed age-specific fitness
standards in the areas of aerobic fitness, flexibility, and body composition.
If a firefighter does not meet the standard, rather than being penalized,
they are provided with an exercise prescription to help "rehab"
them back into the accepted standard. One of the Peer Fitness Trainers
in the department works with the firefighter to help them with their exercise
program. There is even an incentive program and complimentary fitness
center memberships to help keep them motivated.
Incumbent Testing
The Washington Twp. Fire Department is working closely with the Indianapolis
Fire Department to evaluate the new incumbent firefighter test. This proposed
test would be designed to evaluate the physical ability of a firefighter
to perform their job. Nicoson is a supporter of the test. "If it
is a fair test for all ages, it will be the best thing to happen to the
fire service," he states.
Service to the Community
In addition the department's efforts to preserve the health and safety
of its personnel, they provide several unique services to the community.
Free CPR is provided to all students in Washington Township. So far this
year, 975 students have had their first CPR class. To ensure they provide
the best service possible to their community, a survey is sent to the
home of every emergency call. The department has a 98% approval rating.
Of the up to 20% that are returned (a very good return), 96% have rated
the department's services as excellent. The fire department also hosts
a unique 2-day safety festival. The festival, held on September 14 and
15 this year, provides numerous educational opportunities, a look at the
latest firefighting apparatus, free food, and special activities for all
ages.
Taking Care of their Own
Deputy Chief Nicoson encourages all fire departments to strive to be a
leader in their communities and to be proactive at helping their personnel
to live long and happy lives. Fire Chief Anderson believes that his #1
job is taking care of his people so they can take better care of the community...and
it shows.
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Fast Facts
on the Washington Twp. Fire Department
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| Population Served: |
135,000 bedroom
350,000 working |
| Area Protected: |
34.7 square miles |
| # of Stations: |
5 |
| # of Firefighters: |
140 |
| Average Age: |
42.5 |
| Runs in 2001: |
Over 10,000 |
| Apparatus: |
- 5 engine companies
- 2 ladder companies
- 1 truck company
- 1 rescue company
- 4 in-line ambulances
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| Special Teams: |
- Water rescue
- Rope rescue
- Hazmat
- Auto extrication
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For more information
about the Washington
Township Fire Department, click
here.
© 2006 Public Safety Medical Services
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