In the field: Shift 2

0600....the day started off just like any other day. Gear checks, apparatus checks, etc. We just got our cascade system installed so we got a brief overview of how it worked. (The cascade system is used to fill your air cylinders with breathable air.)

Typically, we eat breakfast on our own and lunch and dinner together. Around 0800, one of the guys that likes to cook called out over the PA system "Pancakes are ready." Much to my surprise, he made breakfast for the crew. Sliced bananas, seasoned with some sugar and cinnamon, and then added / cooked to pancakes. It was really good.

The beginning of the day was spent doing some online training that needed to be completed and going over the apparatus at the station. Then we set up our bunks for when we would be able to wind down and go to sleep.

Around 1030, we took the engine over to the grocery store and did a little bit of shopping for lunch. We picked up some chicken, noodles, pasta sauce, bread, and salad for lunch....little did we know, it would be enough for dinner also. For lunch, the Lieutenant cooked up some chicken rigatoni alfredo (and seasoned to taste) with some bread and a salad....all for the low low price of $3 per person.

Here is lunch on the stove....



After lunch, we spent some time going over the Lifepak 12 and IVs. The Lifepak 12 is used to monitor heart rhythms, blood pressure, heart rate, O2 saturation, etc. Different leads need to be setup in order to use it, so the medic unit showed the engine company exactly how it works and how to set everything up the way they like. As far as the IV setup and installation, they showed us step by step what they do, and what we can do to expedite the process. They also explained all the components of the IV setup.

A little later in the day, I did some PT in the weight room and mezzanine of the high bay. I did some cardio, stretching, and some light weightlifting.

Our first (AND ONLY) call of the night came at about 2000 for a 16y/o female that was suffering from a possible seizure. After getting on scene and monitoring vitals, we determined that she did not suffer from a seizure. She refused any further care and signed a refusal...and we were on our way.

We got back to the station and had a little bit of downtime until it was time to get to bed for the evening. We were able to sleep the night through without any disturbances.

In a conversation with one of the guys on my crew, we "stumbled" upon a GREAT notion. EVERY DAY IS FRIDAY!!! We work one day, and then we are off for two.