Accident Dangers for First Responders
May 8, 2024 in Firefighter line of duty Injuries
First responders are unsung heroes who rush headlong into danger to protect and save lives but face hazards each time they answer the call.
Below, the firefighter injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo discuss the areas where firefighters often face significant risks.
Firefighting and Traffic Hazards
In the city that never sleeps, commuters and residents alike face constant traffic. However, rushing to the scene of an emergency among congested streets and erratic drivers can be a barrier not just to arriving at an accident scene but also to firefighter safety. The urgency required of the job and the speed at which firefighters must move can heighten the risk of collisions and injuries.
In fact, according to the U.S. Fire Administration’s Annual Report on Firefighter Fatalities in the United States, firefighter deaths in the United States due to vehicle accidents are one the many causes of fatalities in the line of duty.
In 2021, the latest year death data is available, 141 firefighters died while on duty.
Additionally:
- 92 died from activities related to an emergency incident
- 45 died from activities at a non-fire scene
- 34 died from activities at a fire scene
- 33 firefighters died from heart attacks
- 12 died while responding to or returning from emergency incidents
- 9 died while participating in training activities
Hazardous Materials and Structural Collapses
Working as a firefighter can also lead to exposure to toxic chemicals and flammable substances. Firefighters encounter these invisible threats regularly, risking exposure to harmful agents that can cause severe health complications. Even with advanced protective gear and rigorous training, the danger remains ever-present, underscoring the importance of caution and vigilance in hazardous material incidents.
Flames can also engulf a building instantly, leading to a loss of structural integrity in the building they may be responding to. Structural collapses can occur suddenly and without warning, trapping responders beneath tons of debris and posing a grave danger to firefighters inside.
Despite advances in technology and techniques, these risks can only partially be eliminated and are a well-known part of the job.
Mental Health is a Silent Struggle
While physical dangers often take center stage, the toll on firefighters’ mental health is a silent but equally significant concern. The trauma of witnessing horrific scenes, the pressure of life-or-death decisions, and the cumulative stress of the job can lead to serious psychological issues. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are all too common among first responders, highlighting the importance of robust support systems and access to mental health resources.
Mitigating the Risks of a Firefighter Career
Despite the hazards first responders face and confront, they continue to serve with courage and resilience, embodying the true spirit of heroism. While we cannot eliminate all risks that emergency responders face, it’s important to try to mitigate them through comprehensive training, state-of-the-art equipment, and unwavering support for the physical and mental well-being of those who put their lives on the line daily.
If you or someone you know has been injured in the line of duty, contact our experienced firefighter injury attorneys today for a free consultation.
Contact an Experienced NYC Firefighter Injury Lawyer at SPBMCC Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including firefighter injuries. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury cases, car accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.