Title: National Fire Service Enhances Emergency Medical Response and Search & Rescue Operations: New Requirements and Equipment
The National Fire Service in Belize has recently been granted four hundred thousand dollars from the Central America Regional Security Initiative, Economic Support Fund to enhance its emergency medical response and search and rescue operations. This development comes after the government approved the integration of these services into the mandate of the National Fire Service.
With the new requirements, individuals applying for positions within the National Fire Service will now need to meet physical fitness standards to endure physically demanding search and rescue operations, as well as participate in the extrication of injured individuals from burning buildings and vehicles. The upgrade aims to expand the responsibilities of the fire service beyond fire management.
To demonstrate the capabilities of the revamped National Fire Service, a simulation exercise was conducted at the Santa Elena Fire Station in Cayo. The exercise showcased the new equipment and units that will be utilized in emergency situations.
The Santa Elena Fire Station’s control center serves as the hub for all emergency calls received on the Fire Service’s 9-9-0 hotline. The dispatch center is equipped with computer-aided dispatch software and GPS technology to efficiently process and locate emergency calls. Dispatchers gather vital information from callers to relay to the responding emergency teams, ensuring that they are well-informed about the situation they are entering.
In terms of response procedures, fire trucks are dispatched first, followed by ambulances, allowing medical assistance to be readily available if needed. The simulation exercise highlighted the coordination and collaboration between the fire attack team and the emergency medical service (EMS) team, emphasizing the importance of seamless communication and quick actions in minimizing risks and saving lives.
Colin Griffith, the Fire Chief of the National Fire Service, explained that the new system is currently being tested in the western part of Belize and will eventually be expanded to other districts. Belize City, however, will be the last to be included due to the existence of the Belize Emergency Response Team, which already provides ambulatory services.
The enhanced National Fire Service aims to offer advanced life support capabilities, enabling firefighters to administer medication intravenously during transit. Additionally, more firefighters will be recruited and trained to fulfill their new roles effectively.
Training remains a crucial aspect of the National Fire Service’s operations, with regular simulations conducted in different areas to address any challenges or shortcomings. Despite efforts to improve response time and tackle limitations such as torn hoses and water supply, factors like narrow streets in Belize City may present ongoing challenges. However, collaboration with Belize Water Services Ltd. has been established to ensure fire hydrants are cleared and functional.
Overall, the National Fire Service’s integration of emergency medical response and search and rescue operations reflects the commitment to protecting and saving lives in Belize. The upgrade ushers in new requirements, equipment, and training that will significantly enhance the capabilities of the fire service.
