Critical Incidents

Fire & EMS

First responders, such as those in the Fire and EMS service, are frequently exposed to dramatic and distressing incidents in their line of duty. While news broadcasts often show graphic scenes from horrific events, the emotional and psychological impact on even the most resilient first responders is less frequently highlighted.

The following are examples of critical incidents that can profoundly affect personnel in the Fire and EMS service:

  • Line of Duty Death (LODD)

  • Serious injury of a colleague

  • Unexpected death of a co-worker

  • Sudden death of a patient

  • Witnessing particularly gruesome scenes

  • Encountering dismemberment or significant blood loss

  • Dealing with severely burned patients

  • Incidents involving critically ill or injured young children

  • Suicide of a colleague or patient

  • Murder/suicide situations

  • Assaults on oneself or colleagues

  • Threats of violence towards first responders

  • Patient injuries due to departmental operations

  • Patient death attributed to clinical errors

  • Major medical equipment failures

  • Operating in hazardous conditions (biological, radiological, chemical, fire, explosive)

  • Extended exposure to death and dying

  • Encounters with intense sensory triggers (e.g., the smell of blood or decomposition)

  • Knowing the victim personally

  • Feeling a personal connection with the victim

  • Victims resembling themselves or loved ones

  • Handling multiple casualty incidents

  • Confronting several traumatic events in a short time span

  • Unsuccessful prolonged resuscitation efforts

  • Managing interactions with distressed and demanding family members

  • Any situation that impairs or could impair the functioning of one or more individuals

These critical incidents underscore the need for robust support systems and interventions to help first responders cope with the unique challenges of their profession. If there's uncertainty about exposure to a critical incident, it is recommended to seek a consultation with Dr. Brown. He can assist in evaluating the incident and advising on an appropriate response.