Clearwater Fire & Rescue to Participate in 2007 International Fire & EMS Safety Stand DownClearwater Fire & Rescue is participating in the 2007 International Fire and EMS Safety Stand Down, the week of June 17-23, 2007. The Stand Down, themed "Ready to Respond," will focus on preparing firefighters and EMS personnel for their daily duties by reviewing their training and the proper use of equipment to ensure safety during all emergency situations. In 2006, 105 firefighters died in the line of duty; already this year, 44 have been lost. The purpose of the Safety Stand Down is to reduce these deaths and injuries by calling attention to safety practices and improving them. Stand downs have been used by the military for years to correct issues that have been identified as a problem throughout the ranks. "We will suspend all non-emergency activities for one week and dedicate that week to safety," said Assistant Chief of Health and Safety Robert Swarthout. "This is the time to really focus on training, preplans, hydrants, physical fitness-all the things we need to do before a call." The Stand Down is sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the International Association of Fire Fighters and the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the IAFC.
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