Programs
Firefighters are exposed to a variety of risks and hazards, both immediate (e.g., burns, falls) and long-term (e.g., smoke inhalation, carcinogens). As a result, advanced health screening tailored for firefighters is essential to ensure their well-being and to enable early detection and treatment of any health issues.
Friends of Fairview sponsors the screening of all our firefighters annually. Below are the list of screening items;
- Cardiovascular Assessment: Given the high levels of cardiovascular strain during firefighting activities, regular cardiovascular checkups, including stress tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and cholesterol panels, are crucial.
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): These tests measure the lungs’ capacity and efficiency. Firefighters are at risk for respiratory issues due to smoke and chemical inhalation.
- Cancer Screenings: Firefighters have an elevated risk of certain cancers due to exposure to various carcinogens. Regular screenings such as skin exams, lung CT scans, and other relevant tests depending on individual risk factors should be considered.
- Vision Exams: Regular eye check-ups to detect any vision deterioration or issues, which could be exacerbated by exposure to smoke and other particulates.
- Musculoskeletal Examination: Given the physical demands of the job, it’s important to regularly evaluate musculoskeletal health to prevent or manage injuries.
- Exposure Monitoring: Monitoring exposure to harmful substances, such as asbestos or certain chemicals, and maintaining an ongoing record can help in linking any future health issues to occupational hazards.
- Blood and Urine Tests: Regular blood panels to check for metabolic markers, kidney function, liver function, and exposure to certain toxins are essential. A complete blood count (CBC) and other relevant tests can also be beneficial.
- Immunizations: Ensure that firefighters have all necessary and recommended vaccines, especially those related to potential exposures (e.g., Hepatitis B).
Friends of Fairview purchased “Cooling Vests” for Fairview’s Police Officers to help them in the excessive Texas heat conditions. Below is a description
Purpose: Police cooling vests are designed to reduce the risk of heat stress, increase comfort, and improve performance in hot environments or during physically demanding tasks. They are especially beneficial during prolonged outdoor duties, riot control, training exercises, or any activity that can lead to increased body temperature.
Friends of Fairview annually hosts a grand appreciation gala for both the police and fire departments. Our dedicated Emergency Responders, along with their spouses, are lavished with an exquisite catered feast, captivating entertainment, and a myriad of festivities. To top it all off, generous prizes, graciously provided by our esteemed sponsors, await them as a token of our deep gratitude.
Friends of Fairview finances these annual events through a blend of kind contributions from our sponsors, donations from our citizens, and proceeds from our Holiday Flag Program.
A heartfelt thank you to the citizens and businesses of Fairview for your unwavering generosity and support.
The “File of Life” refrigerator magnet health form is an essential tool designed to assist emergency personnel during a medical emergency, especially when the patient might be unconscious or unable to communicate. Here’s a description:
**File of Life Refrigerator Magnet Health Form**
**Purpose:**
The primary aim of the File of Life magnet is to provide first responders, such as paramedics or police officers, with quick access to an individual’s critical medical information during an emergency. This information can be crucial in determining the best immediate course of action and can potentially save lives.
**Design & Features:**
1. **Magnetic Backing:** The form is attached to a magnet, which is typically placed on a household’s refrigerator. This standardized location is easily recognizable and accessible to emergency personnel.
2. **Durable Pouch or Sleeve:** The actual medical form is often kept in a clear, protective sleeve or pocket attached to the magnet, ensuring the information remains legible and undamaged over time.
3. **Medical Information:** The form itself contains spaces for vital medical details
4. **Size:** The form is typically designed to be compact yet legible, ensuring it doesn’t occupy too much space while still being easy to read.
5. **Privacy:** Though the form is meant to be easily accessible, the information should be treated with care, and households should be aware of who might have access to it.
**Benefits:**
1. **Rapid Access:** In an emergency, every second counts. Having immediate access to a person’s medical information can expedite decision-making and intervention.
2. **Improved Medical Care:** Knowledge of medications, allergies, and existing medical conditions can help prevent adverse reactions and ensure appropriate treatment.
3. **Peace of Mind:** For individuals, especially those with serious medical conditions or the elderly, knowing that their vital information is easily accessible in an emergency can offer significant peace of mind.
In summary, the File of Life refrigerator magnet health form is an indispensable tool in emergency medical situations, ensuring that even when a patient cannot speak for themselves, their health information “speaks” for them.
The Residential Knox Box® is a high-security key safe designed for single family homes that only local emergency responders can access. With a Residential Knox Box installed outside your home, emergency responders can gain access to your property quickly, without forcing entry. They simply remove your entrance key stored inside, render aid and re-lock your door when they leave.
The Knox Box can be ordered from this site: http://www.knoxbox.com/
When purchased, Fairview Fire and Rescue will be notified as they are the only ones with a key to open it.
Note: Installation of the Know Box at your home would be an additional cost. Typically a handy man type person can do the work.
