Responders at Firehouse World Urged to Practice, Perfect

SAN DIEGO -- Predict, practice, perfect and practice again.

That's the message Los Angeles County Fire Chief P. Michael Freeman stressed Tuesday to the thousands of responders attending opening ceremonies at Firehouse World.

This year's conference included - for the first time ever - a full "EMS at Firehouse World" component, bringing the high-level education you've come to expect from EMS EXPO to this joint conference in San Diego.

Freeman's keynote address was peppered with dramatic video of recent wildfires as well as the June 1, 2008 blaze at Universal Studios that claimed the King Kong exhibit, and the aftermath of an earthquake.

Following the presentation of the colors, footage from Al Simmons of raging, deadly wildfires came to life on the screen. Attendees sat quietly watching as blazes consumed houses and everything in their wake.

A special presentation on the Freeway wildfires was added to the program Tuesday.

In addition, San Diego Chief Tracy Jarman urged responders to take care of themselves during these tough economic times. She commended everyone for attending the training despite budget woes.

The chief also urged attendees to remain focused on the core mission -- saving lives and property.

"Can first responders meet the challenges?" Freeman asked the audience. “To that, I say there are responders who think they can and those who can."

Every community across the nation faces its own challenges. It's essential that responders really take a look around to see the potential issues, and plan accordingly.

"It could be a railroad that runs through town. Are they prepared for the potential Hazmat situations? High-rises have their own challenges that need to be planned for."

First responders also should listen to predictions, and be as prepared as possible. Across California, everyone is preparing for the earthquake they know is coming.

Experts have been watching the movement along the San Andres Fault and predict that a major quake is probable every 150 years. Freeman says it's now three years overdue.

With the prediction of an extended vibration, underground pipelines will rupture and shut off water supplies. "With as many as 1,600 simultaneous fires, and no or little water, we're talking a major conflagration."

Freeman said planning is essential. Everything must be taken into consideration. Damaged bridges and roads may prevent mutual aid companies from getting there.

Taking care of the injured will have to be a cooperative effort. Triage areas and field hospitals will have to be established. Responders from various agencies have disaster plans that they've shared with others.

Hopefully, crews will get enough warning to get their rigs out of the stations.

Freeman said planning is just as important for the everyday incidents. While his department trains for wildfires and earthquakes, other companies across the country need to prepare for their unique challenges.