Firefighter Newsletter March 7, 2024

NEWS
 Rescue from Big Rig Hanging Off Louisville, KY, Bridge

The driver of a tractor-trailer that was dangling over the Ohio River in Louisville Friday suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Two others involved in the crash suffered serious injuries. 

The tractor-trailer was involved in a four-vehicle accident on the Clark Memorial Bridge around 12 p.m., according to the Lexington Hearld Leader.

During a press conference, Mayor Craig Greenberg said, “within 40 minutes of the accident taking place, the Louisville Division of Fire began, conducted and concluded an absolutely heroic rescue."

Firefighter Bryce Carden, 29, was lowered by a rope system from an aerial ladder to the dangling cab to make contact with the driver. Carden, a six-year member of the department, cut her seatbelt and placed her in a rescue harness before the pair was hauled up to the roadway by firefighters.

"She was amazing and so brave through the entire thing, Fire Chief Brian O'Neill said of the driver, who was a military veteran.

"Through their swift and proficient maneuvering, they safely rescued the victim in about 40 minutes. We are incredibly proud of all the members on the scene today," As posted on the Louisville Division of Fire Facebook page.

The truck was removed from the bridge - which connects Indiana with Kentucky - nearly eight hours after the crash.

Officials said the Department of Transportation used drones to assist with their evaluation of the damage to the bridge.

HIRING
Loveland Colorado Fire Rescue Firefighter Posting

2024-2025 Firefighter Recruitment Announcement

Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA) is recruiting firefighters for the Fall 2024 Front Range Fire Consortium Academy (FRFC) and to create an eligibility list for the Spring 2025 FRFC Academy. Candidates will be invited to apply based on their NTN FireTEAM scores.

Please carefully read the minimum qualifications and submit your FireTEAM and Public Safety Self-Assessment (PSSA) Part 1 during the testing window: March 5, 2024 – May 6, 2024.

Minimum Qualifications:

• NTN FireTEAM and Public Safety Self-Assessment (PSSA) Part 1 (by May 6, 2024)

• Must possess at time of job application (by May 28, 2024):

  • High School diploma or equivalent

  • Valid Driver’s license with a safe driving record

  • Current CPAT certificate

  • NIMS ICS 100/200/700/800

  • Current CPR-Basic Life Support (BLS) for Health Care Provider or equivalent

  • Current State of Colorado EMT-B; OR current NREMT and State of Colorado EMT-B within 3 months of hire date

• Ability to successfully complete the Front Range Fire Consortium (FRFC) Academy and pass the Academy test within six (6) months of hire.

*Candidates invited to apply will be required to attach copies of their certifications to their application in order to proceed in the process.

To review the complete Firefighter job description, please click here.

HEALTH AND FITNESS
Harnessing the Power of Intermittent Fasting: A Firefighter’s Guide

Intermittent fasting has emerged as a transformative dietary approach for firefighters, offering a pathway to enhanced health and performance on the front lines. IF isn’t about what you eat but rather when you eat, cycling between periods of eating and fasting. There are several popular methods, including the 16/8 method, 5:2 diet, Eat-Stop-Eat, and alternate-day fasting. The 16/8 method involves fasting for 16 hours daily and eating within an 8-hour window, while the 5:2 diet allows for regular eating five days a week and limited calorie intake (500-600 calories) on the remaining two days. Eat-Stop-Eat involves fasting for a full 24 hours once or twice weekly, and alternate-day fasting alternates fasting days with non-fasting days.

Read more here

Implementing intermittent fasting requires a strategic approach. For firefighters transitioning to IF, starting slow is key. Begin with a less restrictive fasting schedule, such as the 12/12 method, where fasting occurs for 12 hours and eating for the remaining 12 hours. As your body adapts, gradually increases fasting periods. Staying hydrated is crucial during fasting periods, so drink plenty of water to curb hunger and maintain optimal hydration levels. When it’s time to eat, prioritize nutrient-dense foods such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients. Listening to your body’s hunger cues and adjusting your fasting schedule accordingly is paramount to finding a rhythm that works for you.

NEW HIRE TESTING SUPPORT
Avoid These 5 Resume Mistakes

The Resume is the first step to a great impression. Make no mistake, your resume carries a lot of weight during the entire firefighter hiring process. I have review 100s of resumes, usually before the interview and after the interview of a candidate. Resumes must be a strong representation of you and consistent with your answers during the interview.

Tips to avoid the 5 Most Common Resume Mistakes

1. Your resume is about your future; NOT your past.

2. It is not a confessional. In other words, you don’t have to tell all. Stick to what’s relevant and marketable.

3. Don’t write a list of job descriptions. Write achievements!

4. Promote only skills you enjoy using. Never write about things you don’t want to repeat.

5. Be honest. You can be creative, but don’t lie.

Read the full article by clicking here.