HomeMy WebLinkAboutFIR 01-15 (ill/o0 Report to
Executive Committee
• PICKERING
Report Num ber: FIR-01-15
• Date: May 11, 2015
- From: John Hagg
Fire Chief
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Subject EpiPens — Fire Services Department
- File: A=1440-001-15
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Recommendation:
1. That report FIR-01-15 by the Fire Chief be received for information purposes only.
Executive Summary: Pickering Fire Services Department crews are increasingly
called upon to respond to a wide variety of medical emergencies. Our commitment to
intensive ongoing training on new protocols and equipment ensures that our firefighters
can keep pace with the growing needs and expectation's of our community. •
One of those community expectations is that first responders are trained'and equipped
to treat a patient experiencing a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Over the next
few months our firefighters will receive training on recognizing and treating anaphylaxis.
Once the training is completed the EpiPen auto injector treatment will be carried,on our
fire trucks. The introduction of this tool will allow us to provide a potentially life-saving
drug to patients.
Financial Implications: The addition of EpiPens and the training of fire crews will be
managed within the 2015 current budget. .
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Discussion: The EpiPen auto injector is a disposable, pre-filled automatic
injection device that administers epinephrine in the event of a severe allergic reaction.
Epinephrine is a medication that can help to decrease a patient's allergic reaction by
relaxing the muscles in the airways to make breathing easier. In cases of anaphylaxis
seconds count, Fire Services are strategically positioned in the community and crews
can respond quickly for 911 calls, having EpiPens on the fire trucks with trained
firefighters ensures patients are given the best possible chance for recovery from a
severe allergic reaction. .
Other Greater Toronto Area fire departments have recently begun carrying these
devices. Mississauga Fire Department reports having saved four_lives in the first year of
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FIR-01-15 May 11, 2015
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Subject: EpiPens— Fire Services Department Page 2
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supplying their fire crews with EpiPens. Here in Durham, Clarington Fire Department
recently outfitted their fire crews.
This program will ensure.that Pickering Fire Services Department can provide quick,
safe and effective anaphylaxis treatment to members of our community.
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Fred Hyland John Hagg
Deputy Fire Chief Fire Chief •
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JH:nrm
Recommended for the consideration.
of Pickering City Council
0°/ ,,/ / /7,Z0/5
Tony Prevedel, P.Eng.
Chief Administrative Officer
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CORP0227-07/01 revised
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