News Flash

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CONTACT: Matt Sheley at (401) 842-6543 or msheley@middletownri.com 

WHEN SECONDS MATTER

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (JULY 23, 2024) – In almost every job, preparation and training are huge keys to future success.

When it comes to handling issues and emergencies at Middletown’s beaches, it’s no different.

Since 2022, Middletown firefighters and lifeguards at Second and Third beaches have been cross training before the start of summer. 

This includes everything from how to properly radio in an emergency call to Middletown Fire to CPR and first aid skills, transitioning a patient to firefighters as well as the location of essential equipment on rescue wagons.

The goal is to make sure everyone gets the absolute best care possible and the entire process runs smoothly and efficiently from moment one when someone needs help. 

“It builds confidence in the lifeguards as those who will be on scene first,” Fire Chief James Peplau said. 

“They know what they have to do in the moments before firefighters arrive. During the training, we get a sense of each other that naturally translates to coordination at a call. We aren’t trying to figure it out for the first time during an emergency.”

The idea for the cross training came about during summer 2021 discussions between Peplau and Beach Manager Mike McGourty about first aid equipment used at the Sachuest Point Road summertime hotspot as well as Third Beach around the corner on Third Beach Road.

Out of those conversations, Fire Battalion Chief Brian DeFreitas was assigned to work with McGourty on a training program between the Fire Department and lifeguard staff.

Now in its third year, firefighters and beach staff said it’s made a huge difference, especially during calls when seconds count.

“I tip my hat to the beach staff and Fire Department for working behind the scenes, training to provide seamless care and service to residents and beach patrons in need,” said Will Cronin, who oversees the beaches as part of his duties for the town. 

“Not every day is a day at the beach and I’m glad the red trucks and red trunks are working together to take care of everyone who is in need.”

“This year was one of the largest groups we’ve cross trained with, around 60 lifeguards,” DeFreitas said. “They are one of the most dedicated groups we’ve trained with and it made me really proud to see everyone together, working towards a common goal.” 

Prior to the start of each beach season, all lifeguards tour the fire station on Wyatt Road. During those visits, they get an in-depth look at the rescue wagons and where critical equipment is stored.

Firefighters also performed demonstrations of treating an acutely ill person, helping to provide a deeper understanding to lifeguards of the capabilities of the Fire Department and the personnel who work there. Use of a cardiac monitor, IVs and medications were also part of this process.

Peplau said the training played a huge part in two recent rescue calls at the beaches. During both cases, he said lifeguards recognized patrons needed medical assistance and promptly requested assistance from the Fire Department via radio while other lifeguards tended to the patient. Then, he said lifeguards confidently directed the firefighters to the patient and assisted with care and equipment.

In coming weeks, Peplau said firefighters and lifeguards are planning a joint water rescue training. These exercises will feature lifeguards, firefighter rescue swimmers as well as the Fire Department rescue boat and Jet Ski.

After the close of every beach season, Peplau said there’s a wrap-up meeting to determine how the program went and where improvements are possible for the following year.

“The whole experience is really impressive,” Peplau said. “There’s a genuine interest in providing the best care and experience for our beachgoers. Everyone just wants it to work well.”

Document Link: https://mdl.town/NYCU-Fire-Guards