Terminology

ALS

Advanced Life Support; the level of care provided by fire department paramedics, including the use of cardiac monitors and administering drugs.

Emergency Medical Services

Advanced life support includes using heart monitors, intubation, administering drugs, spinal immobilization, and rapid transport to the nearest, most appropriate emergency room.

Engine

A fire department vehicle that carries water and hose to extinguish fires.

Fire Prevention

Includes fire safety inspections, plan review for buildings under construction, and investigation of the cause and origin of fires.

Fire Suppression

Actions taken to extinguish fires, wherever they occur (in buildings, vehicles, or outside). Suppression activities include pulling hose and applying water, establishing water supplies, performing search and rescue, extending ladders, ventilation, and salvage and overhaul.

Hazardous Materials

Isolation, containment, and mitigation of leaks of hazardous materials; monitoring hazardous environments; and rescue and decontamination of individuals affected by hazardous materials (haz-mat) release.

Ladder

The department’s “toolbox,” it carries a variety of ladders, saws, fans, ropes, and rescue equipment.

Medic

An ambulance with heart monitor, airway equipment, intravenous (IV) supplies, and drugs that is capable of transporting two patients.

Rescue

A specialized vehicle with a variety of rescue equipment, including hydraulic rescue tools (i.e., the jaws of life) and air to refill firefighters’ air tanks.