ACROSS Our PRESS DESK......

Sam Cahan, PE                          

Many Firefighters With Known Heart Problems Go To Work

Hard to believe but in one study three-quarters of firefighters who died of heart attacks---the top cause of on-duty deaths---went to work with known or detectable heart conditions, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

43.7 percent of those who died on the job experienced sudden cardiac death triggered by stress and exertion. NFPA found that 134 firefighters had previously suffered a heart attack, undergone bypass surgery, or angioplasty/stent placement. The majority had known heart disease but was not on restricted duty.

Unfit firefighters pose a danger to themselves, fellow firefighters and the public if they become incapacitated during emergency response.

NFPA has developed standards that require health and fitness programs for firefighters. Another requires firefighters to meet health standards before joining the fire service, and to be carefully evaluated annually.


More info: Contact Margie Coloian, NFPA Public Affairs
617-984-7275