Every day, EMS providers make crucial decisions that impact the lives of their patients. One critical decision is where to transport patients, particularly those who have sustained traumatic injuries. Research indicates that patients with traumatic injuries have a 25 percent lower death risk when taken to a Level I trauma center versus a non-trauma center. The decision of where to transport these patients should not be taken lightly. Fortunately,... Read More
Tackling a high-occupancy structure fire means playing by a different set of rules. Hotel or apartment buildings require special techniques, but what about a healthcare facility? This course takes you behind the scenes to learn what works and how you should adapt to this particular type of fire emergency.Read More
Pregnancy Complications
EDA: 464-0510
Introduction:
For most women, pregnancy is a time of great joy and anticipation. But for a significant number of women, pregnancy presents an additional challenge when it is complicated by serious problems. This course examines some of the most common pregnancy complications EMS providers are likely to encounter in the field, including diabetes mellitus, pre-eclampsia, hypertension, trauma during pregnancy, and preterm labor.Read More
Large Scale Hazmat: El Dorado Chemical Fire
EDA: 463-0310
Introduction:
Large-scale hazardous materials incidents present a number of challenges to fire and emergency personnel. This course will explore a 2009 chemical plant fire in College Station, Texas, that involved over 1,000 tons of agricultural chemicals and dozens of departments and agencies. Students will use this real-world example to address concerns related to large-scale hazardous materials incidentsRead More
750 Adams: The Last Alarm
EDA: 054-0032
Introduction:
A tragic course of events led to the loss of two firefighters and two civilians in a high-rise fire at 750 Adams in Memphis, Tenn. Presented in their own words by members of the Memphis Fire Department, this program offers life-saving advice that every firefighter needs to hear.Read More
S.C.B.A, Part 1 of 2
EDA: 047-0171
Introduction:
Demonstrations teach the inner workings of various types of SCBA and their maintenance prodedures. Topics include controlled breathing techniques, working together as a team, and what to do if SCBA malfuntions or the air supply is depleted. Learn how to recharge and return SCBA to service in top working condition. The program also covers decontamination procedures.Read More
High Rise Structure Fires
EDA: 038-0110
Introduction:
A high-rise structure fire is exciting in the movies, but in real life, it can be a greater challenge than anything else a firefighter may face. To successfully combat the high-rise structure fire, fire departments need to know how these buildings are put together, what inherent fire suppression systems are available, how to deploy resources and engage tactics, and how to get occupants out of the building.Read More
Prevention of Sexual Harassment
EDA: 038-0210
Introduction:
Firefighting is tough enough without having to put out the fires of sexual harassment within your own
department. A single sexual harassment case can cost your department hundreds of thousands of dollars
– not to mention the poor publicity. Learn from an attorney and a battalion chief how you can keep this
from happening in your department – in “Prevention of Sexual Harassment” on FETN.Read More
PULSE: Poisons and Toxins
EDA: 464-0210
Introduction:
Tylenol. Bleach. Alcohol. The things you use on a regular basis can quickly become more hazardous than
helpful. It is important for pre-hospital care providers to know what is toxic, where those toxins come from,
and how to respond to them. This course provides resources for determining the toxicity of a substance,
and it analyzes the various routes of poison exposure. Unintentional poisoning, natural toxins, overdose,
and alcohol abuse are discu... Read More
PULSE: Burns: Assessment and Treatment
EDA: 464-0110
Introduction:
Burn management has consistently been one of the most controversial topics in all of emergency care. Every year, nearly 1 million people require treatment for burn injuries in the United States. Add to that an increased terrorism threat in the United States, and it can be assumed that there will also be an increase in the number of burn-related injuries. This course is designed to provide the emergency responder with the knowledge needed to effec... Read More
Active Shooter
EDA: 464-1209
Introduction:
This course discusses the challenging aspects of dealing with an active shooter crisis. The course reviews aspects of incident command, profile of a typical gunman, types of weapons, and obstacles that may be encountered. It also reviews triage and treatment of patients with war-like trauma.Read More
Fire Investigation From a Codes Standpoint
EDA: 038-1209
Introduction:
This course examines the fire investigation process from a codes standpoint, paying close attention to NFPA 921. It also examines conditions relative to fire and smoke spread that are used in fire investigation, as well as how codes can be applied in determining cause of property damage and cause of bodily injury or loss of life in a fire incident.Read More
Full-Scale Exercises
EDA: 463-1209
Introduction:
Conducting a full-scale exercise involves much more than just responding to a simulated incident. Substantial planning involving all stakeholders sets the tone for the entire project. A fully scripted, realistic scenario gives participating agencies the sense of a real world incident. Thoughtful identification of key evaluation points, including detailed job aids for exercise evaluators, along with a thorough, constructive after-action review, p... Read More
Multi-Family Structure Fires
EDA: 038-1109
Introduction:
Successfully fighting multifamily fires demands an intimate knowledge of construction techniques, engineering principals, and performance measures. In multifamily structures, the population density increases significantly as does the size of the structure. Coordination of fire operations and evacuation are paramount in these types of dwellings. While similar to a single family structure fire, the multifamily fire requires different tactics, strat... Read More
Pediatric Emergencies
EDA: 464-1109
Introduction:
In rural and urban areas, approximately 10 percent of all ambulance calls are for children younger than 14 years old. Trauma is the most common emergency call for children between 5 and 14 years of age, and illness is the most common emergency call for children younger than 5. Treating a pediatric patient can be one of the most stressful situations an EMS provider faces on the job. Many rescuers make a special connection with children because the... Read More
Ice Storm
EDA: 463-1109
Introduction:
On January 12-14, 2007, Springfield, Missouri, was the center of an ice storm that left 1.5 inches of ice covering 29 counties and over 200,000 people without power for days and even weeks. Most recently, large areas of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri suffered another severe ice storm that left one-third of all Oklahoma residents without power and led to the deaths of over 22 people. This course reviews the conditions that lead to major ice storms... Read More
PULSE: EMS Response to the H1N1 Flu
EDA: 464-1009
Introduction:
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that attacks the nose, throat, and lungs. The H1N1 flu differs from the regular, seasonal flu in that it is a completely new strain of influenza, the result of a multi-viral mutation. H1N1 is highly contagious, and it is spreading rapidly from person to person, claiming hundreds of lives worldwide, with thousands of confirmed cases in countries across multiple continents. In response, the World Healt... Read More
The H1N1 Flu: Issues and Answers for Firefighters
EDA: 038-1009
Introduction:
This course is designed to educate firefighters about the hazards involved with the H1N1 flu virus. H1N1 is a new influenza virus declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization. The virus is spread from person to person in much the same way as the regular seasonal flu. This program examines how the virus is transmitted, prevention techniques, and what to do if you are infected. It also examines signs and symptoms of the H1N1 flu and... Read More
I-4 Pile-Up
EDA: 463-1009
Introduction:
First responders are often confronted with motor vehicle crashes in low visibility conditions. On January 9, 2008, Polk County, Florida, responders were confronted with a worst case scenario as 70 vehicles collided in zero-visibility conditions along a heavily traveled interstate highway. The lessons learned in Polk County will benefit responders nationwide who may face similar situations in their jurisdictionsRead More
Hurrican Ike
EDA: 463-0909
Introduction:
In September 2008, Hurricane Ike devastated Galveston, Texas. A category 2 hurricane with a category 4 storm surge, Ike resulted in catastrophic flooding 12 hours prior to landfall. In addition to coordinating mass evacuations, firefighters responded to more than 60 structure fires and performed more than 200 high-water rescues during and after the storm. Two stations and two fire apparatus were lost due to flooding. This course shares Galveston... Read More
Stroke and TIA
EDA: 464-0909
Introduction:
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States after diseases of the heart and all forms of cancer. Your assessment skills, your ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke, and the appropriate transport decision can mean the difference between life and death. This course reviews the anatomy and pathophysiology of stroke, defines proper assessment and management, and identifies the elements needed for a successful strok... Read More
Conducting Basic Fire Inspections
EDA: 038-0909
Introduction:
Fire suppression activities are not the only way to combat fires: a well-planned and executed fire prevention and inspection program is a less expensive and more effective way to accomplish the goal of the fire service. The goal is, of course, to minimize the risk of fire and property loss from fire. By observing, making recommendations, and subsequently controlling or eliminating hazardous conditions, the inspector can make major strides toward ... Read More
Single-Family Structure Fires
EDA: 038-0809
Introduction:
Single-family structure fires are the bread and butter response for most of Americafire service. A large majority of firefighter deaths are in direct relationship to these types of responses. This course will explore the dynamics of todaysingle family structure fires. It will address the many changes that have occurred in building construction, contents and designs, and it will unite them with modern day strategy and tactical philosophies.Read More
Spinal Cord Injuries
EDA: 464-0809
Introduction:
Today, as many as 400,000 Americans are living with the lingering effects of a spinal cord injury. That number increases by 11,000 annually. While EMS providers cannot prevent the injuries themselves, their actions in the fi eld could mean the difference between a full recovery and a lifetime of paralysis.Read More
Suspended Ceilings
EDA: 463-0809
Introduction:
Every day, fire companies work with suspended ceilings above them. At first glance, the ceilings do not seem to be a problem, but all too often firefighters get caught in their traps, and we end up mourning another lost brother or sister. This course discusses the challenges and risks associated with suspended ceilings, as well as some precautions you can take to avoid being caught in the trap.Read More
Trench Rescue
EDA: 038-0709
Introduction:
This course is designed to educate rescue personnel in the fundamentals of trench rescue. Basic soil dynamics, OSHA safety requirements, and personal protective gear and equipment are addressed. Further, participants will learn to operate in various types of trench collapse scenarios utilizing their knowledge of the Incident Command System.Read More
PULSE: Women and AMI
EDA: 464-0709
Introduction:
This course reviews the fundamental anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of a heart attack. The course then discusses how heart attack is becoming a more prevalent disease among women. It covers special assessment concerns, such as considerations when placing 12-lead electrodes and cultural issues dealing with the assessment of women. Finally, the course discusses significant factors that contribute to the risk of myocardial infarction in wom... Read More
Organizational Safety: The PFD Approach
EDA: 500-0181
Introduction:
A firefighter gets lost in smoke and fire. Disoriented, his air running out, he calls for help from his rapid intervention team ... but one company alone is not enough. American Heat looks at the March 2001 death of Phoenix, Ariz., firefighter Bret Tarver. We also talk with charismatic fire chief Alan Brunacini about what he modestly calls "the best fire department in Phoenix," and look at how the department maintains unprecedented comm... Read More
Vehicle Fires: Investigation
EDA: 463-0709
Introduction:
There is an orderly procedure for conducting a proper vehicle fire investigation. Understanding this procedure is key to correctly determining the cause of a fire. This is especially true of suspected arson fires. This course discusses the growing problem of vehicle arson, how to examine vehicles and occupants safely, and how to conduct a vehicle fire investigation using the scientific method.Read More
Safe Parking: Street Survival
EDA: 038-0609
Introduction:
The previous safe parking course, Safe Parking: Tools and Equipment, examined the tools and equipment you need to be safe at the scene of a highway incident. This course demonstrates how to effectively use this equipment to avoid becoming a “struck-by" statistic.Read More
PULSE: Safe Kids
EDA: 464-0808
Introduction:
Safe Kids Worldwide is a global network of organizations whose mission is to prevent accidental childhood injury, a leading killer of children 14 and under. While there is no one device or solution that will effectively prevent all types of accidental childhood injuries, emergency medical technicians will realize the benefits of Safe Kids coalitions, which combine several factors to create programs that reduce injuries by educating adults and chi... Read More
PULSE: Depression and Altered Behavior
EDA: 464-0609
Introduction:
Behavioral emergencies often lack many of the clinical, objective signs and symptoms associated with other medical emergencies. This makes these emergencies extremely challenging and, oftentimes, dangerous for everyone involved. This course identifies depression and altered behavior and describes the appropriate size-up, assessment, and treatment for these patients. Proper patient takedown and restraint procedures are also discussed.Read More
Vehicle Fires: New Technology and Response
EDA: 463-0609
Introduction:
This course presents up-to-the-minute safety tips on suppressing vehicle fires, including proper tactics, wearing PPE, and scene safety. The course showcases some examples of new types of vehicle fires, such as compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles, electric vehicles, and gasoline-powered vehicles, with an eye on firefighter safety in suppression, salvage, and overhaul. The course describes a Seattle CNG vehicle fire and explosion and the danger ... Read More
Homeland One Awareness Level Training Course XVI: CIP— Applying Countermeasures, Part 2 of 2
EDA: 948-1017
Introduction:
Part 2 of this course will provide a more detailed overview of the last
step of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Process, which covers
applying countermeasures. Part 2 of this course lists four major
categories of emergency services critical infrastructures for which
countermeasures are applied and provides several examples for each
category.Read More
Manufactured and Mobile Home Fires
EDA: 038-0708
Introduction:
The construction methods used in manufactured and mobile homes are not typical. These “ultra
light” structures present several unique considerations for fi res. Many of the modifi cations made to
these structures are not up to any type of building, fi re, or electrical code, especially in rural areas. Firefi
ghters may run into unexpected situations with these homes that will greatly increase the danger.Read More
PULSE: Infectious Diseases
EDA: 464-0708
Introduction:
This course provides EMTs with an update on some new and old infectious diseases, including MRSA, SARS, hepatitis, the avian flu, and HIV. Pathophysiology and occupational exposure are also addressed, as well as the importance of disinfecting equipment and the ambulance.Read More
PULSE: Patient Refusal
EDA: 464-0608
Introduction:
Most EMS litigation occurs not from what the EMS professional did, but rather, from what he or she did not do. In patient refusals, it is understood that the EMS professional is the expert in knowing whether a patient should be treated and transported, not a patient who may be in an altered state of consciousness and thus unable to make decisions. Refusals are high-risk situations medico-legally. Written documentation is the key to avoiding the m... Read More
Safe Parking: Tools and Equipment
EDA: 038-0608
Introduction:
This course is an operations-level responder training and safety program for personnel who work in or near moving traffic at vehicle-related incidents, traffic stops, disabled vehicle tow and recovery, vehicle collisions, vehicle fires, etc. Specific tactics for safely establishing command and establishing temporary traffic control zones on the roadway are discussed. Interagency cooperation and understanding of responder roles and responsibilit... Read More
PULSE: Diabetic Emergencies
EDA: 464-0508
Introduction:
This course discusses diabetes mellitus, including basic pathophysiology, acute complications, and long-term complications. Emergency treatment for common diabetic emergencies are addressed, including the conscious hypoglycemic, unconscious hypoglycemic, and unconscious hyperglycemic in diabetic ketoacidosis. Emerging therapies for the management of diabetes are also discussed. Read More
Remembering Charleston: Lessons for Life
EDA: 463-0608
Introduction:
This course is meant to be in memoriam to the fallen firefighters from Charleston, South Carolina. The course details structures similar to the Super Sofa that can be found in every community. It details the typical problems associated with similar structures and ties in with fire code requirements. The course leads into the importance of regular inspection and preplanning. Initial strategies and tactics are described with a tie-in to the theory... Read More
PULSE: Roadway and Highway Safety
EDA: 464-0408
Introduction:
In this edition of PULSE, the focus is on operating an emergency vehicle safely. Unfortunately, “running hot” (lights and sirens) is inherently dangerous, and too few operators of emergency vehicles are actually expert drivers. The vehicle is the one piece of equipment that is used the most often and trained on the least. Join us as we discuss safety issues related to the emergency vehicle–the impact of driver attitude, vehicle dynamics, po... Read More
The Firefighter's Role in Cause and Origin
EDA: 038-0508
Introduction:
We preplan for disaster, practice for disaster, and even fight disaster, but what about after the fire? Have we developed and fine tuned our keen sense to preserve the fireground for the post-fire investigation? In the excitement of fighting fires, do we pay attention to details that will assist in cause and origin? In this course, we will look at observations that firefighters may make to assist cause and origin, other important information sour... Read More
Thermal Imaging
EDA: 463-0508
Introduction:
This course discusses the technology behind thermal imagers. It also emphasizes the proper use of these imagers. There are several pitfalls and problems that may be encountered while using a thermal imager. Techniques to avoid those pitfalls are examined. Read More
Fire Marshal's Office: Fire Prevention and Life Safety Programs
EDA: 038-0408
Introduction:
This course is designed to teach fire suppression personnel what constitutes a comprehensive fire and life safety prevention program. It will include material that explains why that is important for public safety and why it is important to firefighters. Concurrently, it will offer some perspective to other fire prevention personnel who are in a position where they are trying to design and defend their own programs.Read More
Tanks and Tankers
EDA: 463-0408
Introduction:
This program is an overview of the various ways Hazardous Materials are stored and transported. Specifically, we will discuss why these particular containers are chosen, and what engineering systems they have to help keep the product intact. We will also review incidents involving the failure of these systems to contain their products.Read More
How to Conquer Subordinate Counseling
EDA: 038-0308
Introduction:
If you are in a supervisory position with subordinate employees, subordinate counseling and discipline are inevitable. Too many supervisors take one of two extremes: They try to be a “buddy” to all of the employees, and the entire organization suffers. Or they try to be the hard-nosed boss who disciplines employees without creating an atmosphere of mutual trust, respect, and understanding. Properly administering discipline is a responsibility... Read More
PULSE: Airway Management
EDA: 464-0308
Introduction:
This program deals with airway management issues common to EMS providers. It includes anatomy and physiology of the lungs to include the exchange of gases at the alveolar level and basic techniques of ventilation (BVM and associated airway adjuncts) and assessment of effectiveness of ventilatory efforts. DOT Category: Airway Management.Read More
Medical Response to Terrorism
EDA: 463-0308
Introduction:
This course covers medical response to terrorism and some suggestions on how you can help your fire crews prepare for such an event. The terrorist threat as it relates to the fire service is described. The course looks at basic triage tactics firefighters may need to perform during a terrorism incident response. Finally, the course describes community resources such as MRC/CERT and how to utilize them. Read More
Real Leadership Is Not for Wimps
EDA: 038-0208
Introduction:
This activity covers the important aspects of being a real leader, not a positional leader. Topics discussed include how to get people to want to follow you, cultural myths about leadership, higher accountability, the difference between management and leadership, why people resist certain leaders, and how to positively influence others. Some of the traits and characteristics of real leaders are universal, and the laws governing leadership are tim... Read More
PULSE: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
EDA: 464-0208
Introduction:
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning causes 500 unintentional deaths each year in the United States and approximately 2,000 intentional deaths due to suicide. Responder safety is an extremely important concept when responding to CO poisoning calls. If the EMT also gets CO poisoning, treatment for the patient is delayed and scene safety is compromised. This course discusses what CO poisoning is, what causes it, how it presents in patients, and how to di... Read More
