Canteen

The leading cause of firefighter fatality is heart attack.

According to the USFA, 44% of firefighter fatalities are medically related, directly traceable to the aftermath of engaging in nonroutine stressful or strenuous physical activity while on duty (i.e.: fighting a fire). Even this figure may be low as the firefighter had to have registered a complaint prior to going off duty to be included in the study.

For this reason, Fire Corps maintains a "canteen" for onsite firefighter relief. In the event of a large local incident, volunteers will be activated through channels at the request of the Battalion Chief or Duty Captain. Volunteers use either a department vehicle or POV to provide water, electrolyte drinks and, potentially, food to Burbank and mutual-aid firefighters. Hydrated first responders are less likely to succumb to medical issues in the wake of a major incident.

This canteen mission should not be confused with the American Red Cross relief programs. Fire Corps volunteers do not directly participate in mass care and sheltering unless assistance is specifically requested by the ARC.

Training

BFCP members on Canteen duty operate behind the fire lines and are accordingly trained in incident awareness, safety and emergency protocol. This is a three hour class.

Canteen-trained members may continue on to Department Vehicle Use I or II.

At the moment, this is strictly a relief operation, though as more EMT-qualified members join Fire Corps, the Canteen function may eventually expand to onsite firefighter rehabilitation, including vitals assessment and oxygen administration.