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Researchers Aim To Keep Firefighters Safe, Cool

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Jul 7, 2009 2:25 pm US/Eastern

Researchers Aim To Keep Firefighters Safe, Cool

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― Firefighters often face many challenges while doing their job, but extreme heat can make battling flames tougher – and, in some cases, deadly. Now some local researchers are looking at ways to help.

UPMC and Pitt researchers are looking at ways to better keep firefighters safe on the job – particularly during the hot summer months when heat exhaustion can take a toll on crews.

The new techniques are designed to help reduce the risk of heat stress and, in turn, sudden cardiac arrest, which is the leading cause of death in firefighters nationwide.

"A typical house fire … can achieve ceiling temperatures of 1,000 degrees within a matter of minutes," Pittsburgh Fire Bureau Assistant Chief Francis Deleonibus said.

As a result of all the heat and stress, about 60 to 80 firefighters die of heart attacks while on the job every year nationwide.

Emergency services representatives are evaluating several different ways to help firefighters cool off -- including using a special chair with water bags and a cooling vest.

Several firefighters tested these new cooling methods today at the Allegheny County Fire Academy today. 

"The heart rate rises instantly when the alarm goes off," assistant professor of emergency medicine, Dr. David Hostler said. "Maybe well over 100 before they ever arrive at the fire … while they're exerting themselves … their heart rate may go to near maximum values -- 180s, 190s."

While sitting in the cool down chair, Deleonibus said the methods seems to work

"It's working well, I feel very comfortable," he added. "No ill effects."

Today's tests are part of the final phase of the Fireground Rehab Evaluation (FIRE) Trial.

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