Friday, July 11, 2014

Beat the Heat!

With the temperatures soaring, City of Tacoma Emergency Management recommends the following actions to minimize the risks of hot weather this summer.

Adjust your attire and activities to limit heat exposure and exertion!

If you are going out, plan to wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that covers as much of your skin as practical. Limit your exposure to direct sunlight between 10AM and 4PM, when the sun's rays are at their strongest.

Drink plenty of water before you become thirsty and rest in the shade before you become tired!

Water is normally the best drink during hot weather, and you'll need more than you think. Avoid soda, alcohol, or caffeine as they can make the heat's effect on your body worse. Symptoms of dehydration and heat illness may include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache and vomiting.

Consider a cool place to visit or stay during the hottest part of the day.

Libraries, (note that Tacoma libraries are closed on Sunday and Monday) theaters, shopping malls and community facilities such as senior centers and parks may offer an air-conditioned refuge. Additional cooling centers are located throughout Pierce County.

Many heat emergencies occur to people exercising, working or staying alone. Use a buddy system and check on elderly, disabled or at-risk neighbors on a regular basis. If you suspect someone is experiencing a medical emergency from extreme heat exposure, call 9-1-1.

Never leave children, pets or dependent adults alone in a hot car.

Even with the windows down, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.

More detailed heat safety information can be found at National Weather Service and the Center for Disease Control.


National Environment Public Health Tracking Network

Look out big apple, Tacoma Fire is coming to town!

TFD received official notification via Good Morning America today that we are advancing to the finals of the 5 Alarm Firefighter Challenge. Three firefighters, Lieutenant Debbie Garrison, Firefighter/Paramedic Kurt Gordon, and Firefighter Kris Hampton were selected by Chief Jim Duggan to represent the department in the final challenge competition live on the GMA set in New York City July 14-16. 

Team TFD will square off against firefighters from Gulf Shores Fire and Rescue, Alabama and McAllen Fire Department, Texas. The teams will participate in a series of physical and knowledge-based activities revealed on the show each day. The winner will be announced on Wednesday July 16. Many thanks for voting us in, we will do our best to represent!

Thursday, July 10, 2014

The polls are open!

The polls are open in the Good Morning American 5 Alarm Firefighter Challenge. TFD currently holds a slight lead over Las Vegas Fire Department. Watch/share/vote! 
 Vote here



Wednesday, July 9, 2014

We made it to the semifinals!

Tomorrow will be your opportunity to vote for TFD's video in the Good Morning America 5 Alarm Firefighter Challenge. Vote by visiting the GMA website from 5am - 12pm tomorrow July 10. Vote early and vote often!