by California Casualty | Nominate a Hero |
Meet Mr. Thomas Knight. Mr. Knight is a very dedicated teacher at Eddy Middle School. Along with teaching Math and Social Studies, he is a mentor to a special group of students in the 7th grade.
He takes them to dinner to teach etiquette techniques, helps the students learn how to tie ties correctly and purchases suits for students who have to attend formal functions. It’s said that Mr. Knight’s high level of integrity for his occupation and empathy for his students helps him be the perfect role model for all the boys in the 7th grade at Eddy Middle School.
by California Casualty | Firefighters |
Have you stopped to thank an emergency medical services worker? Now is the time!
Whether it was lifesaving medical treatment at an accident scene, search and rescue at a major disaster, transportation to the hospital during a heart attack or stroke, or specialized care for the nation’s first Ebola patient, millions owe their lives to EMS professionals.
California Casualty is joining millions of Americans in thanking those who work in emergency medical services during National EMS week, May 17-23 – set aside to recognize the safety, honor and the dedication of those who provide the day-to-day lifesaving services of medicine’s “front line.” The observance began in 1974 and has grown along with the profession.
You can help thank EMTs, paramedics and other first responders in a variety of ways:
- Order pizzas or prepare a meal for your local ambulance company or fire station
- Create goody bags with treats, discounts at local restaurants or movie tickets for EMS personnel
- Host a neighborhood celebration and invite EMS personnel to join the fun
- Learn CPR
- Help create an EMT or Paramedic of the Year Award for your community
- Join events that honor and remember fallen EMS workers
- Write thank you notes and take them to a fire station or local ambulance company
- Paint some thank you banners or posters and put them up along main streets or roads where EMS people will see them
The national organization for EMTs also urges emergency medical service practitioners to host open houses, teach CPR, give injury prevention tips and offer ride-alongs to help spread the word and create better awareness about the important work EMTs and paramedics perform for our communities.
California Casualty makes it easy to give a salute to EMS professionals with our Nominate A Hero program. Numerous EMTs and paramedics have received a $250 gift card and have been recognized on the Hall of Heroes page at www.nominatemyhero.com. Thank your EMS hero with a nomination for the monthly award.
California Casualty also thanks EMS personnel for their hard work with the chance to win a custom Harley-Davidson® Road King or $25,000 in our Work Hard/Play Hard contest. Details and entry forms can be found at https://go.calcas.com/harley.
Resources for this article:
https://www.acep.org/emsweek/
https://www.naemt.org/ems_agencies_audience/ems-week/10-ways-to-celebrate-ems-practitioners
by California Casualty | Peace Officers |
Is there any industry that technology hasn’t revolutionized in the past few decades? Over the last ten years in particular, changes in Internet technology, the development of new software, and the influx of mobile devices have led to significant shifts in law enforcement, for example.
Revolutionizing law enforcement
According to Sean Petty of LawOfficer.com, the last century has been marked by gradual implementation of new technologies and subtle changes in how officers handle their daily duties. However, Petty believes the next three decades will be much different.
In his words, “The law enforcement community, and the greater public safety community, are on the verge of changes in technology that will come not only at a blisteringly fast pace, but that will each be nothing short of transformational.”
New technologies
Though the future looks bright in terms of new technologies, the truth is that currently changes are happening on a grand scale. New technologies have been introduced in recent months that are already having noticeable effects on the industry.
In addition, more technologies are coming, right around the corner. Take a look at a few of these specific devices and the effects they’re having.
- Drone technology.
Though not yet fully refined or regulated by many government agencies and municipal authorities, it’s pretty certain that drone technology will have a future in law enforcement. From providing real-time analysis of crimes to monitoring high-crime areas, drones will be able to give law enforcement officials more access and flexibility than ever before.
- Social media. The power of social media has already exhibited itself in numerous cases and will continue to be a force into the future. Investigators are actually allowed to bypass traditional security mechanisms and gain access to a user’s Facebook or Twitter profile when they have reasonable doubt to believe it could provide useful evidence in a pending case or investigation.
- Body cameras. An increasing number of police officers across the country are beginning to wear body cameras, which are capable of recording their interactions with criminals and citizens. They are small, compact, and usually attach to the upper torso of the officer. While these cameras are constantly being refined, they have already proven helpful in a number of cases.
- Google Glass.
While Google Glass has so far failed to gain much traction in the market, it may become a valuable technology for law enforcement agents if it ever takes off. This technology could furnish real-time information, facial recognition features, GPS directions, and more.
- Less-lethal weaponry. Tasers and stun guns have been incredibly valuable for police officers over the past few decades, and new technologies could enhance weapons further in the future. Ideally, officers should have the ability to use less-lethal force whenever possible, and new developments may continue to make this an attainable goal.
- Biometrics.
Instead of relying on messy ink pads and fingerprint cards, many law enforcement agencies now have the ability to perform retinal scans, record digital fingerprints, and store DNA data with the assistance of advanced biometrics technology. As these databases and software continue to improve, it will become even easier to track criminal activity.
- Tablets and mobile devices. While the average person enjoys using a tablet or smartphone to watch YouTube videos and play games, police officers actually use these devices to record and access information on the go, which allows them to utilize their time more efficiently while on duty.
California Casualty insurance
At California Casualty, we have the utmost respect for the law enforcement officers that protect our communities. As a way of showing our appreciation for first responders, we offer protection and peace of mind through superior car insurance policies and special benefits.
For more information on the policies we offer, please contact us today!
by California Casualty | Firefighters, Health, Peace Officers |
*Updated April 2018
Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, or paramedic, life as a first responder can be stressful and challenging. As a result of dangerous or hectic duties and long hours, many first responders are left with little time to care for themselves.
Does this sound familiar? If so, it’s important to start focusing on yourself a little more.
Tips for staying healthy and fit
It’s an admirable thing, to focus on the needs of others and care for strangers in challenging situations. However, there comes a point in time when you also need to think about yourself.
Try implementing any or all of the tips below into your daily routine to experience better overall health and improved fitness.
- Get enough sleep. First responders often suffer from any number of sleep problems because of drastic irregularities in their schedules. If you believe you suffer from a sleeping disorder or condition, it’s critical that you see a doctor and get the situation under control. While it may be difficult, you should shoot for seven to eight hours of sleep per night. This allows your body to recover and keeps you mentally prepared.
- Drink plenty of water. Your body thrives on hydration and needs adequate water intake to function properly. According to the Mayo Clinic, that means roughly 13 cups per day for men, and 9 cups a day for women. If you’re coming in under these marks, you’re probably not as energized or healthy as you could be.
- Maintain a balanced diet.A healthy, balanced diet is key to staying healthy and in shape. For optimal results, eliminate as many processed foods as possible and focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You also want some lean protein in your diet, but too much can be a problem. Your muscles crave carbohydrates, and the more you can take in, the better prepared you’ll be for physically demanding situations.
- Stop smoking. If you’re a smoker, you have to quit. Period. You understand the risks associated with smoking, and your cardiovascular health can’t handle this horrible habit. Smoking is one of the worst things you can subject your body to, and you won’t be able to perform well unless you curb this addiction.
- Decrease alcohol intake.While you don’t necessarily have to give up alcohol altogether, you probably should decrease your intake. Avoid drinking alcohol right before bedtime, because this can disrupt your sleep cycles. If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, try to limit yourself to drinking only on off days … and doing so in moderation.
- Exercise on a regular basis.While you probably get plenty of hands-on action on the job, you also need to set aside regular time each day for a targeted fitness regimen. Focus on both strength and cardio training with high-intensity workouts. Plan major workouts for your off days while making sure to include short fitness routines in your work schedule.
- Discover ways to relieve stress.There’s no way around it: being a first responder is stressful. There will be days when it seems like it’s too much to handle. And while there’s no way to eliminate stress completely, you should work actively to reduce its effects on your life. Investigate constructive and safe ways to release stress, and learn to separate your duties from your personal life when possible.
- Regular health screenings. Finally, it’s important to get regular health screenings a couple of times per year to ensure your body is functioning properly. High blood pressure is known as “the silent killer” and should be monitored on a regular basis.
Insurance for first responders
At California Casualty, we offer premiere auto insurance for first responders. Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, or paramedic, we take pride in offering reliable and convenient policies that fit your lifestyle and provide valuable peace of mind.
by California Casualty | Firefighters |
Jeff Bryan is a firefighter who doesn’t let adversity keep him down. Jeff returned to full time work in March 2015, just slightly less than a year after his right leg was amputated below the knee. Jeff severely injured that leg in a 1991 skiing accident in Colorado. He “limped by” in pain until doctors determined the leg had to be removed. Jeff, who is a firefighter and EMT Intermediate with the Ute Mountain Fire Department in southwest Colorado, refused to let the amputation keep him down. He was released from the hospital on his 50th birthday. He says there were two ways to go: give up and feel sorry for himself or push forward and beat it – he chose to move beyond and conquer it.
As soon as he was able, he started bicycling, ice climbing, paddle boarding, swimming and yoga. As far as anyone can determine, Jeff is the only firefighter in Colorado to return to full-time active duty after a leg amputation. Jeff does not want to be known as the firefighter who lost a leg, but the guy who works hard to stay in shape and be the best EMT/firefighter he can.
What’s his philosophy and how does he train? He spells it out here in his own words:
In 1991, I suffered a commuted fracture of my tibia while skiing in Breckenridge, CO. It was during this injury that I first trained to get my life back.
In 2011 I had an ankle replacement. I once again undertook the task of regaining my fitness; however, I never regained my top physical condition. For the next 3 years I worked in unbearable pain. I basically, worked, slept and trained in the gym. I developed high blood pressure. I was getting sick.
On March 20, 2013 I worked a 72. On the 23rd I clocked out and headed to Vail to meet my doctors. Four days later, I was told my best option was amputation. I spent the next three days lying in bed. During this time I made the decision that failure was not an option.
On April 22, 2014 I had a below the knee amputation. I went for an Ertl amputation since I qualified. The Ertl procedure is designed to build muscle and preserve bone that will support prosthetic devices for those who plan to be active. The surgery went well and I was released from the hospital 4/26, my 50th Birthday.
Now 30 pounds overweight, I had a huge undertaking. I needed to lose the 30 pounds and fulfill my goal of returning to active duty. 50 years old, overweight and now an amputee!
I started out just the way I did in 1991. At four weeks I started riding the bike with one leg. At six weeks I received my first prosthetic and was on my way to PT. I followed my instructions to a tee. I continued to bike and work on balance. At this time I also started yoga.
At my age I did not need to increase my calorie intake above 2000 calories a day. I eat a balanced diet, consisting of plenty of fruits and vegetables, chicken and grass fed beef, which I purchase by the half cow. Once a week I splurged and enjoy a bowl of Ice cream. I drink water, 10-12 glasses a day. I never drink soda.
Within a week of getting my first prosthetic I went out on my stand up paddle board. I spent a lot of time swimming, paddling, spinning and lifting. I am a firm believer in high reps, low weight.
We all hear the term crossfit. I do not do a crossfit program. I am a firm believer in cross training, consisting of cardio, core, flexibility and strength training. As I progressed, I started to add new activities. In July, I started rock climbing. In August, I started biking outside.
At 50 years old, avoiding injury is key. Yoga or a good stretching routine should be done daily. Cardio should be done a minimum of three days a week. I prefer four or five, but three will work. I do weight training four days a week. All my weight lifting is done either after cardio or after I ride my bike to the gym. I never lift heavy. I keep my reps at a minimum of 12. I usually do sets of 16-24. I lift for endurance, strength and elongated muscle. Heavy lifting will not only decrease flexibility, it will Increase your risk of injury.
The idea is to move fluidly between cardio and strength while resting as little as possible. As I progressed I added more activities. I started to climb ice, backcountry ski, bike hard and stick to my routine. The idea is to mix it up and have fun.
In January I started ice climbing again. I was climbing strong and climbed as much as I could. I started riding single track on my mountain bike in March. I mix it up as much as possible. Your workout should not be a chore, it should be fun. If you’re not having fun, try something different. Start slow and increase your intensity. I add weight very gradually. I make sure I can do a set of 24 before I up my weight. My bike rides started out at five miles. I am now averaging about 25 per ride on my road bike and 10 miles a day on single track. Just remember Cardio, Core, Flexibility and Strength.
As the seasons change, I take advantage of the weather. I cross country ski, climb, bike or paddle. I still do a minimum of four days lifting; once again, never with heavy weight. I am a true believer that flexibility, elongated muscle, core strength and endurance is the key, especially for firefighters and first responders (more on that in coming articles).
And, all this is working. At nine months I was cleared for full duty by my doctor. At 11 months, I had cleared my final physical. In March, I returned to full duty as a line firefighter and my first shift was 3/7/15.
*Note- Jeff completed the first 30 days of his 90 day probation on April 7 without any issues. He is committed to being the best first responder he can, serving the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe of Southwest Colorado.
