Handling Personal Connections in Emergency Calls: The Firefighter’s Dilemma

The Struggle of Professionalism in Personal Tragedies

When emergency calls come from people we know, how do firefighters handle these situations?

Firefighters are trained to handle situations with professionalism and detachment until the incident is resolved. However, sometimes the stark reality of a situation hits hard, especially when the victims are people they know personally. The intensity of the emotional toll can last for years.

Local Tragedy: A Car vs. Train Collision

One of the most tragic incidents our local department faced was a car versus train collision at a local crossing. The engine arrived with no survivors, making it a somber scene. Once the initial rescue effort was concluded, the volunteers, including those from both paid and volunteer departments, began to arrive on the scene. The captain recognized the car and immediately took steps to ensure that one specific volunteer did not interfere with the ongoing rescue efforts. Another firefighter physically restrained the volunteer, and a sheriff's deputy on the scene secured him to a vehicle.

Understanding the Weight of Personal Loss

Personal Loss: A Universal Experience

Personal connections with the victims are unfortunately not uncommon. Many firefighters have witnessed loss within their own circles, whether it be friends from childhood, former classmates, or extended family members. While these relationships make the tragedies more personal, they do not define the professional approach that must be maintained during emergencies.

Professionalism in the Face of Tragedy

Firefighters are expected to be professional even in the most emotional circumstances. An incident involving a motorcycle accident is one such example. I responded to a scene where the helmet did not cover the rider's mouth or jaw. An elderly man, who should not have been driving, pulled into the path of the bike, causing severe injuries. The victim's mouth was knocked up high, at the level of the window joins. Despite the horrific nature of the injuries, which I chose not to describe for respect, every effort was made to save him.

The involvement of a young girl from our department added an additional layer of personal loss, as she rode with us to the scene. It wasn't until the morning of the incident that I remembered her and the connection to her family. The incident hit me hard, and it took control of my bike and my judgment. I ended up in a minor accident.

The Importance of Professionalism

On the scene, firefighters must remain professional and focused. Every effort must be made to save lives and provide the best possible care. It is only after these goals are met that personal grief and mourning can begin. The professional approach ensures that the community receives the most effective emergency response possible, even in the most personal of circumstances.

In conclusion, while personal connections add a layer of emotion to emergency responses, it is crucial that firefighters maintain their professional stance. The experiences of tragedies can be overwhelming, but the commitment to professionalism helps to navigate the most challenging situations with the best possible outcomes.