The Berwyn Fire Company will participate in the 2014 International Fire/EMS Safety and Health Week from June 15-21. Safety and Health Week is a joint initiative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). The event is coordinated by the IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section and the NVFC and is supported by a network of fire service, health, and safety organizations.

This annual event aims to improve firefighter safety and health to give all a better chance of survival during emergencies and in the long-term. Fire departments across the world will take time during the week to increase awareness and action so that safety and health become a priority in all fire departments.

"Our firefighters will be participating in a simulated structure fire drill, at the West Chester Fire Training Center, to practice fire suppression evolutions this week. This will include focus on safe operations and fireground accountability" said Eamon Brazunas, Fire Chief.

The theme for Safety and Health Week this year is "Train Like You Fight!" Training is a critical component of firefighter and emergency medical responder safety. This focus captures two angles of responder safety:

• Safety on the training ground and reduction of training-related injuries and death.

• The importance of adequate training to prepare for safe fire-ground operations.

Tredyffrin and Easttown residents depend on the Berwyn Fire Company to provide critical, life-saving services and be ready to respond to all types of emergencies and disasters. The department is made up of 76 volunteers and 33 full-time and part-time employees that protect over 30,000 citizens over an area of 14 square miles. With heart attack the leading cause of on-duty firefighter fatalities, around 81,000 firefighters injured each year, and a number of safety and health concerns facing first responders every day, it is especially important that each responder is prepared in every way when the call comes in.

Safety and Health Week provides a time for all department members to focus on the safety and health measures they need to take both on and off duty to make sure they stay strong and ready to serve the community at a moment’s notice. The event brings together the entire fire service community to help prevent line-of-duty deaths and injuries.

"Our first responders train weekly to prevent line-of-duty deaths and injuries", said Craig Peterson, Safety Officer.

The Berwyn Fire Company asks for community awareness and support during International Fire/EMS Safety and Health Week and in its safety and health initiatives throughout the year.

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About the International Association of Fire Chiefs Safety, Health and Survival Section

The IAFC (www.iafc.org) represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials spills, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders. Learn more about the IAFC SHSS at www.iafcsafety.org.

About the National Volunteer Fire Council

The NVFC is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides invaluable tools, resources, programs, training, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org.