It is essential to understand the roles of firefighters and how they play a significant part in helping people daily. Many know them for putting out blazes and saving people from fires. However, many people need to learn that this is just one of the many responsibilities a firefighter has. These heroes act as first responders, emergency medical technicians, and fire prevention specialists.
The Roles of Firefighters and Knowing What They Do
Insurers offering firefighter benefits should know how understanding firefighter responsibilities can help insurance agencies cater to firefighters.
The Importance of Firefighter Benefits
Firefighting is one of the most taxing jobs imaginable — mentally and physically. In addition to an increased likelihood of cancer and lung disease, firefighters are more likely to struggle with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Firefighter health insurance ensures firefighters can access the care and treatment they need. Benefits should include coverage for mental health services and standard health insurance.
Emergency First Responders
The stress and trauma that often causes depression and PTSD may stem from firefighters’ role as first responders. Statistics show over 80% of first responder professionals say they have experienced a traumatic event while working. It includes firefighters, who are often the first to arrive at an emergency scene. It is because they are uniquely qualified to address incidents such as car crashes and other accidents where a fire may emerge. Firefighters will often help to eliminate hazards from the scene and ensure the safety of those involved.
Emergency Medical Technicians
In addition to being first responders, firefighters often act as emergency medical technicians. Most firefighters have an EMT or paramedic certification and extensive training in proper medical techniques. It enables them to provide life-saving services such as critical first aid and CPR, which may be essential for fire victims. Firefighter benefits must include healthcare so that firefighters can seek treatment after exposure to carcinogens.
Fire Prevention Specialists
When firefighters aren’t busy responding to emergencies or providing critical medical care, they act as fire prevention specialists for their communities. They may fulfill this role by giving lectures, educating students, or partnering with businesses to implement safety strategies. Certain company members, such as the Fire Marshal or Deputy Fire Marshal, may also be responsible for inspecting the premises of new buildings to ensure that they comply with all fire safety standards.
Serve Our Heroes With Firefighter Benefits
Insurers who want to make a difference can offer firefighter benefits to these American heroes. In addition to healthcare, you should check with your firefighter clients to confirm that they have adequate general liability coverage. General liability is vital for your clients, too, because it protects them from the out-of-pocket costs they may face due to common liabilities. For example, allegations of negligence or property damage can prompt a lawsuit that imposes a significant financial burden on a firefighting company. Insurers must understand all the risks firefighters face to provide the right policies.
About Provident Fire Plus
At Provident Fire Plus, we offer custom-tailored packages to best protect firefighters and volunteer firefighters. We understand the risks that emergency response teams are subjected to on a daily basis, and have worked to serve these dedicated professionals for over 87 years. For more information about our products and policies, we invite you to contact our experts today at (855) 201-8880.