VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Fighting fires is a dangerous job in many ways.
But many don’t realize the toll it takes on a firefighters body.
Carrying an average of 75 lbs. in gear while battling a blaze makes firefighters highly susceptible to dehydration.
Otter Creek Volunteer Fire Department Public Information Officer Lt. Josh Craft says firefighters burn a dangerous amount of calories while on the job, so it’s important to keep food on hand.
In order to help firefighters make it through the long jobs, such as Sunday night’s
Maple Avenue warehouse arson
, Otter Creek V.F.D brings their rehab bus to any and all fires where they are requested.
The bus allows for firefighters to take a break in the air conditioning or heat, depending on the season, eat high calorie protein snacks and hydrate with water or Gatorade.
Craft explained that in many situations EMS staff are also on board the bus to attend to any firefighters in need of immediate medical attention.
The bus is available for any and all departments, all they have to do is request the presence on scene.
