FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: THE PRICE FOR FREEDOM: FIRE SERVICE LESSONS FROM SEPTEMBER 11

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By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

“The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.” —Major General James Jackson

September 19, 2019 (San Diego) -- It’s been 18 years since United Airlines flight 175 and American Airlines Flight 11 were purposely flown by hijackers into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Shortly thereafter, the Pentagon was severely damaged by the impact of an additional airliner and resulting fire. Hijackers also crashed a fourth plane into a field near Shanksville, Pa., after the passengers and flight crew attempted to regain control of the aircraft.

I remember like it was yesterday. I had just promoted to interim fire chief and I was with several other firefighters at the gym early that morning. It wasn’t until the second plane hit that we knew this was no accident. I was immediately notified by Verdugo Dispatch to report to work ASAP.

For the first time since Pearl Harbor, the United States homeland was under attack. It would be weeks before we understood the complete toll, but within hours one thing was clear: Thousands had perished in the attacks, including a heartbreaking number of police, firefighters and EMS personnel.

Equally deserving of our attention is the rise in domestic terrorism motivated by right-wing extremism, such as the deadly El Paso assault. These attackers are moved to violence by racial bias and anti-government sentiment. Since 2014, the number of attacks from right-wing extremists worldwide has been greater than attacks from Islamic extremists. In May, the head of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, Michael McGarrity, testified that “Domestic terrorism is notably on the rise and the threat of domestic terrorism exists in every region of the United States and all walks of life.”

As we focus on what happened that horrible day 18 years ago, the idea that foreign terrorists can and did carry out a large-scale attack on our country is fresh in our minds. Following incidents such as El Paso and Dayton, we are also understandably concerned about the threat of domestic terrorists, regardless of their motivations. However, we must remember we are far more likely to experience a different kind of disaster—a flood, a building collapse, a wildland fire.

September 11 taught us countless lessons about disaster response. As you honor those who were killed, take time to reflect on these four:

  • Form good working relationships between police and fire. On September 11, law enforcement and fire had no good way to share information. Chief Joseph Pfeifer, the first FDNY Chief to respond to the World Trade Center attacks, has noted the view police officers got from their helicopters that day led them to understand the need to evacuate—but that information was not shared with the fire department. Don’t let rivalry or culture put first responder lives in danger at the next major incident in your community—do what needs to be done now to foster information sharing and the ability to work together effectively, without egos.
  • Prepare for technology to fail you. Countless articles and reports have been written about the failure of radio systems during the September 11 attacks. Much has been done to try to shore up our communications networks. FirstNet, created in 2012, is currently working to develop a nationwide broadband network designed to prioritize the needs of first responders. But technology can always fail us. On your next drill, practice what you’d do if the radio system failed and your interior crew has no communication with the incident commander.
  • Identify and practice methods for communicating with the public during disasters. Whether dealing with a widespread evacuation due to fire, an active-shooter situation or a political demonstration gone awry, public safety agencies need to know how to get information in the hands of the public and the media quickly and accurately—while simultaneously adapting to incoming information. Do you know the public alert systems your community uses, who has authority to activate them and whether residents need to opt in to receive alerts? Check out this free on-demand webinar from Lexipol to learn more.
  • Prepare your family. I don’t know a single firefighter who wouldn’t respond if called to a mass disaster. But I know many whose family would be completely unprepared. Developing an emergency plan is especially important when you might be called away and will be unable to help your family evacuate. Plan escape routes, meeting points and communication strategies, and always have a well-stocked emergency preparedness kit.

We honor the memories of those who gave their lives on 9/11 and in service to our country since. By remembering lessons from the attacks, we shall always remain prepared to fight against evil.

*Note: The information in this article was compiled from various sources. These suggestions are not a complete list of every preventative or loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace additional safety manuals or the advice of another qualified professional(s). We make no guarantee of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.


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