Wednesday November, 26 2025 @ 15:14

Nature: Firefighter CPR Training – Team Based Approach

Location: Station #1 – Oak Orchard

On Wednesday evening, November 26th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company hosted its monthly training which focused on firefighters needing medical assistance and CPR. 

Firefighter CPR involves a team-based approach to start chest compressions immediately while simultaneously removing the downed firefighter's turnout gear and SCBA to gain access for effective CPR. The process requires specific roles for multiple rescuers to manage CPR, remove the firefighter PPE (i.e., helmet, mask, and coat) and pull the downed firefighter from their gear so compressions can continue uninterrupted.

The Team-Based "Pit Crew" Approach

The "Pit Crew" approach is designed to provide high-quality CPR in a coordinated and systematic way, similar to how a pit crew efficiently services a race car. Studies have shown this approach can significantly improve patient survival rates. Key elements include:

• Role Clarity: Each team member has a specific, pre-assigned role and understands their responsibilities.

• Minimizing Interruptions: The primary goal is to ensure continuous, high-quality chest compressions with minimal time off the chest, especially for defibrillation and airway management.

• Structured Rotation: The physically demanding role of the compressor is rotated frequently (typically every two minutes) to prevent fatigue, which can compromise compression quality.

• Effective Communication: Rescuers use closed-loop communication (confirming tasks are understood and completed) to ensure seamless coordination.

• Integration of AED/Airway Management: Defibrillation pads are applied and the airway is secured while compressions continue, ensuring a smooth process.

Firefighter-Specific Considerations

When the patient is a downed firefighter, specific protocols address the challenge of their heavy gear:

• Rapid Gear Removal: A specialized 10-step process for "Firefighter-Down CPR" focuses on quickly removing the helmet, mask, hood, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to provide an even surface for compressions and effective rescue breaths.

• Positioning: The downed firefighter is often moved between the rescuer's legs to facilitate gear removal and immediate transition to resuscitation.

NFPA Guidance: Fire departments often follow NFPA 1407 standards for fire service rapid intervention crews (RIC/RIT), which emphasizes having a dedicated team ready for rapid deployment to rescue a trapped or injured member.

Ongoing, standardized training in these team dynamics is crucial for building confidence and ensuring readiness in high-pressure scenarios.

Illustrated herewith are some photographs of the evening evolutions.