Media Advisory/Photo Opportunity: Pitt and UPMC Researchers Test Methods to Enhance Fire Safety and Reduce Line-of-Duty Deaths
WHO: Local firefighters and representatives from local emergency medical services will be present, along with:
- David Hostler, Ph.D., assistant professor of emergency medicine, University of Pittsburgh, and director, Emergency Responder Human Performance Lab (ERHPL)
- Joe Suyama, M.D., assistant professor of emergency medicine, University of Pittsburgh and medical director, ERHPL
- Steven Reis, M.D., professor of medicine and emergency medicine, and associate vice chancellor for clinical research, University of Pittsburgh
WHY: Sudden cardiac arrest is the most common cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters. This FEMA-funded study is being conducted to develop the best methods of reducing the acute cardiovascular risk that results from exposure to heat stress during firefighting.
WHAT: This is the final phase of the Fireground Rehab Evaluation (FIRE) Trial in which Pitt and UPMC researchers will evaluate lab-tested techniques to cool firefighters to identify the best methods to save lives.
Firefighters will participate in a live-burn drill where they will enter a Fire Academy building that is burning and put the fire out. Upon exiting, they will be cooled using one of three methods:
- Passive cooling in an air-conditioned environment
- A special chair that has hollowed out spaces for the forearms where ambient-temperature water bags are used to cool the firefighter’s core temperature
- A liquid-perfused cooling vest
The researchers will monitor their core temperatures and heart rates during this time.
The UPMC Simulation Medical and Resource Training (SMART) Unit, a multi-purpose mobile unit with the ability to provide disaster relief and response within short notice, will be on site. The unit offers a learning environment for paramedics, EMTs and emergency medicine physicians.
WHEN: 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesday, July 7, 2009
WHERE: Allegheny County Fire Academy, 700 West Ridge Rd., Allison Park
Note to Media: To make arrangements to cover this event, contact Stephanie Stanley prior to the event at (412) 586-9762, stanleysl@upmc.edu, or (412) 401-8373 (cell) the day of the event.