Responding When the Station Becomes the Scene

Discover fire station resilience and strategies for responding when the station becomes the scene on the latest episode of WFCA’s Fire Headlines Podcast.

Responding When the Station Becomes the Scene

In this episode, host Samantha Didion and Chief Ken Kehmna discuss the resilience and security of fire stations, sparked by an article shared in the Daily Dispatch that highlights a recent incident in Massachusetts where three teens crashed a stolen car into a Kingston fire station. The story serves as a reminder of how unexpected incidents can compromise fire station operations.

Balancing Security with Community Openness

Chief Kehmna addresses the challenge fire stations face in safeguarding critical infrastructure while remaining accessible to the public. The discussion highlights the need for security measures, such as physical barriers around essential equipment, to prevent damage from accidents while ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.

Planning for Operational Readiness

Chief Kehmna explains that maintaining response capabilities, even when a station is compromised, relies on well-practiced procedures. Fire personnel must prioritize personal safety, operational readiness, and communication with dispatch to continue serving their community efficiently. Reflecting on past experiences, Chief Kehmna shares stories of fire calls happening right outside the firehouse. These situations require quick thinking and adherence to protocol, illustrating the need for firefighters to be prepared when emergencies occur at or near their own station.

Learning Through Shared Experiences

Chief Kehmna emphasizes the importance of sharing stories among fire service professionals to broaden perspectives on handling unique incidents. By hearing about varied experiences, firefighters can adopt best practices and be better prepared for unexpected situations in their own stations.

You can email Fire Headlines at [email protected].

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