EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — As we reach the end of the heat wave sweeping across Connecticut, first responders have been doing their best to keep cool while out on calls.
East Hartford Fire Chief Kevin Munson said keeping first responders safe is sometimes hard to do when the temperatures reach 100 degrees.
This week, firefighters are facing a different kind of heat than usual. The hundred-degree temperatures are making it tough for them to be outside in full gear at scenes, but in East Hartford, Munson said they are prepared when duty calls.
First responders are often dressed in heavy protective gear, whether firefighters in PPE or officers in bulletproof vests. Though this gear keeps them safe, it's not lightweight.
“Our first priority is our responders [and] making sure they’re hydrated and safe," Munson said. "I don’t think people realize that when we go to calls and put on PPE, it’s essentially like wrapping yourself in a foil suit."
That’s why this week they are using the “Rehab-1” bus. It's typically used only for major calls, but this week, it will be used often.
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“When the heat spikes like this we pre-staff it make sure there’s somebody to go with it go to any call of necessity that lasts for a period of time," Munson explained. "We also offer it to our police department, so if they have an extended event where they’re wearing ballistic gear, we offer it to them to stay hydrated."
This bus will be a refuge from the demands of any call, making sure the first responders stay safe so they can, in turn, keep you safe.
“Light snacks, food, electrolytes, tents, misting fans, cooling chairs, we even have monitoring equipment to make sure we do everything we can to keep our responders safe," Munson said.
Despite the challenges, Munson said that firefighters are ready and waiting for any calls that come their way, no matter the weather.
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Brooke Griffin is a reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at bgriffin@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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