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All Departments Administration Corrections Development Services Facilities Management Human Resources Information Technology Library Services Management and Budget Services Natural Resources Management Neighborhood and Human Services Parks and Recreation Public Safety Public Works Veterans Services Waste ServicesEscambia County Fire Rescue honored their firefighters for their work involving two residential structure fire rescues during a presentation at ECFR-Station #3 Friday, Feb. 16.
During the presentation, ECFR Fire Chief Adam Harrison acknowledged the bravery and commitment of the ECFR firefighters who risked their lives to save the life of another. Chief Harrison, along with ECFR Battalion Chief Curt Isakson, discussed the roles Escambia County Emergency Communications and Escambia County EMS played in the rescues, including the clear information provided by emergency dispatchers and the smooth, seamless transition of patient care from the firefighters to the paramedics and EMTs.
"In a one-week period, our Fire and EMS personnel have responded to numerous emergencies, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community," said Chief Harrison. "Their swift response and effective coordination have resulted in several remarkable civilian rescues, showcasing the true essence of heroism."
ECFR units Engine 4, Engine 6, Engine 2, Engine 9, Engine 1, Safety 4, District Chief 1, Battalion Chief 3, Public Safety 1 and Chief 1 responded to a residential structure fire at the 2600 block of N. Highway 95A at 11:43 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 31. Upon arrival, a single-story wood-framed structure was showing heavy fire conditions in the front of the home. During the size-up of the situation, firefighters were able to access the home in the rear. During the primary search of the burning structure, one person was discovered inside the home and was quickly removed.
"As we went in, we were doing a search and our firefighters reported to me that we had a victim," said Lt. Jeff Rohrer. "At that point, I went on the radio and let our command know that we had a victim and that we were pulling the victim out of the Charlie side."
Once the victim was brought out of the home, firefighters performed CPR until Escambia County EMS took over patient care. The victim was transported to an area hospital by LifeFlight crews. The fire was brought under by 12:05 a.m. and is being investigated by the Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives.
ECFR units Squad 3, Engine 17, Ladder 12, Engine 11, Engine 1, Battalion Chief 2, Battalion Chief 3 and Chief 2 responded to a residential structure fire at the 4500 block of Deauville Way on Monday, Feb. 5. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and flames were visible from the single-story home. Bystanders confirmed to ECFR that one person was trapped inside the structure. Firefighters located the occupant within 90 seconds after entering the home and safely removed the victim from the home.
"As I made my way to the front door, I could hear the victim inside screaming for help," said Lt. Charles McGuffey. "So I made a decision to go in and I was able to hear her and use the thermal imager to get to her. As I got to her, I realized she was conscious and I told her to put her arms around my neck and we'll get you outside."
Once the victim was out of the home, Escambia County EMS provided immediate medical care and transported them to an area hospital. ECFR conducted an investigation and determined the fire was accidental and electrical-in-nature. The American Red Cross provided assistance to the displaced occupants.
During the presentation, ECFR highlighted the amount of fire-related rescues that have occurred in Escambia County since 2000, the year ECFR transitioned to a consolidated fire service.
"In the last 20 years, Escambia County Fire Rescue has documented 42 rescue and removals from house fires," said Battalion Chief Curt Isakson. "That's pretty impressive, and if you think about it, each and every day in the country, firefighters rescue 9.8 people a day."
ECFR discussed a variety of topics, including the importance of having functioning smoke detectors in your home, keeping your doors closed while sleeping at night, and the large amount of fires ECFR responds to frequently. The ECFR presentation can be viewed in its entirety here.
ECFR is available to provide and install smoke detectors free of charge for residents. According to NFPA, a working smoke detector cuts the chances of dying in a reported fire in half. For information about obtaining a home smoke detector, call 850-595-HERO (4376) or request a smoke detector online through Ask MyEscambia. City of Pensacola residents may call 850-436-5200 for smoke detector installation assistance.
Escambia County Fire Rescue proudly operates as a combination fire service, utilizing the talents and diversities of volunteer and career firefighting personnel. Career personnel operate in 15 stations throughout the county. 13 stations work a 48/96-hour shift, and two stations work Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteer firefighters operate out of numerous stations throughout Escambia County. Escambia County Fire Rescue also provides other emergency services such as hazardous materials response, special operations and ALS non-transport. Learn more about how to join Escambia County Fire Rescue. Follow Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.
ECFR Fire Chief Adam Harrison begins the presentation with opening remarks
Battalion Chief Curt Isakson discusses the recent rescues by ECFR
Lt. Nick Gradia addresses the audience on behalf of IAFF Local 4131
Deauville Way firefighters, paramedics and EMTs pictured with Mrs. Christa Betts and family
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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