The Heartland communities have turned to a state-of-the-art computer system which dramatically reduces the time needed to respond.  In situations where even a few seconds count, lives and property can be saved by that crucial difference.  A new, more powerful radio system offers better coverage of the Heartland communities, too.

All it takes is a call to 9-1-1
In an instant, the caller's address and phone number appear on the screen directly in front of the dispatcher.  While the dispatcher quickly asks the caller about the emergency, the computer shows the cross streets and closest response units.

A push of a button summons firefighters, paramedics, ambulances, Life Flight or law enforcement.  If needed, the dispatcher calms hysterical callers or may even give life-saving CPR instructions over the phone.

Computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and a superior radio system are vital to the Heartland emergency network, but nothing will ever take the place of its well-trained professionals.

Trained as firefighters or dispatchers, these men and women can be credited with daring rescues and fast, intelligent work under pressure.  The Heartland Emergency Services network receives a staggering number of calls - and every one must be handled accurately.  Training makes that possible.

Extensive training means quality
Potential firefighters are rigorously screened from competitive candidates who have a college education.  After nine weeks of classroom instruction at the Heartland Fire Academy, firefighters continue on-the-job training.  Then, each year, a firefighter can be expected to spend almost 500 hours in both classroom and field training.  The training facility serving the Heartland communities is used every day of the week.

Firefighting grows more complicated and dangerous each year.  New threats include the increasing variety of synthetic and hazardous materials which generate explosive and toxic fumes when burned.  Because of the potential exposure to communicable diseases during medical emergencies, firefighters must know how to protect their own lives as well.

Dispatchers, as the critical link in the communication of an emergency, must also be trained.  During extensive on-the-job training, future dispatchers learn to handle the complicated radio, phone and computer system.  The ability to think clearly while handling several urgent tasks simultaneously is the hallmark of our skilled dispatchers.  Continuing education and daily updates keep them on top of their profession..

Today's firefighters depend on highly sophisticated equipment that is safer and more effective then ever before, and the Heartland emergency network is no exception.

New firefighting materials and types of tools are available.  Fire engines have computers on board to operate the engine equipment such as extending ladders.

Specialized trucks with "baskets" and arial platforms save lives from tall buildings, while utility trucks provide intense lights, compressed air (to operate tools or even lift cars off the ground), and other aids.  Trucks named Squrts™ have elevated nozzles for directed water spray.  Although rescue units are typically used at the scene of car accidents, they also enable firefighters to rappel down steep embankments for cliff rescues or other unusual situations.

What most citizens don't realize is that firefighters do much more than extinguish a blaze.  They work hard to limit damage, too.

Damage control is crucial
For instance, water is carefully channeled out of the building to protect the structure from water as well as fire.  Large salvage covers are draped over valuables (such as computers) during the course of the fire.  Giant fans are positioned at exits to clear smoke damage.  At chemical spills, special absorbent materials, not only to soak up life-threatening chemicals, they keep them from seeping into sewers or earth.

M o r e   I n f o r m a t i o n
Questions and Answers

BACK