The purpose of this course is to provide firefighters and first responders with information about detecting, preserving, and securing evidence at fire scenes for further investigation. This course may also entice some participants to continue into the longer, more detailed Fire and Arson Investigation program (120 hours) and become eligible to be certified as fire scene investigators.
This four hour course will provide first responders in any stage of their career with the necessary tools to remain resilient to the stressors that come with the job as well as stress from off the job. Focusing on cutting-edge science, students will see how stress can damage the brain, and also how the brain can recover from this damage. Students will also increase their understanding of how stress and mental health impact not just the brain, but the entire body. Behaviors and mindsets will be presented that will help students to care for themselves as well as support their families at home and at work.
Resiliency and Mental Health are key components to overall wellness for first responders. This course seeks to remove the stigma surrounding the discussion of mental health, trauma, and suicide. Facilitated group discussions will create open dialogues where students can share what has worked well for them and address areas where improvements could be made.
This Cornerstone version introduces students to the basics of Responder Intervention Team (RIT) operations and tactical and strategic operations related to downed firefighters. Discussion covers firefighter case studies, RIT tools, staging, RASP, size up, accountability, equipment demonstrations, victim extrication/disentanglement, and managing the "Mayday." Preventive or proactive methods of avoiding situations where fire fighters are trapped are highlighted. Practical reactive techniques or mitigation of a downed responder are demonstrated and practiced as a part of this "hands on" class. NOTE: Protective Clothing Required -- Participants must furnish approved helmet, turn out gear, eye protection, gloves, SCBA and boots for this class. This course is delivered at local fire departments