As the country takes in terrifying images of the latest wildfires scorching communities in California, Oregon and beyond, Chief Scott D. Kerwood is thinking of the firefighters out working the blaze. He knows that as weary as they may be, many are continually running on empty, worrying more about protecting others than taking care of themselves.
While the business of being a firefighter is physically demanding – even when they’re not putting out house fires or dealing with other emergencies, putting out wildfires is grueling work. And it’s made even more difficult by harsh environmental conditions that cause physiological and emotional stress. That’s why Kerwood says it’s critical for firefighters to take breaks to hydrate, rest, decontaminate their gear and take other important steps to recover. If they don’t take the time to take care of themselves during those arduous emergency situations, Kerwood warned, firefighters, risk causing injuries to themselves and to the colleagues they are supposed to protect.
“The goal is that when they are done with this job, they can go home to their family at the end of their shift — or at the end of their career,” said Kerwood, who serves on the NFPA committee that reviews the rehabilitation guidelines and requirements spelled out in standard 1584.
Given that wildland firefighters are exposed to extreme heat and toxic substances for extended periods of time may make them vulnerable to certain types of cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. There are long-term performance and health benefits related to rehabilitation practices for wildland firefighters. Beyond helping to lessen the risk of serious illness, adding services provided on the scene may also help firefighters recover properly so that they’re ready for the next emergency.
Although fire professionals have been urging the rank and file first responders to use incident-based medical services, showers, decontamination stations, and other rehabilitation resources for at least a decade, the recent push to focus on wildland first responders may be in part due to what some industry experts consider troubling trends.
A recent study, for instance, suggests that drier conditions at higher elevations may explain why some wildfires have occurred in areas previously considered ‘too wet to burn.’ Ten-year data suggest that the average number of acres that burned has increased in some regions. In addition, regions are also seeing more and more residential and commercial developments built in wildlands. Because of these additions, it may be more likely that we start to see more of the 1.1 million career and volunteer firefighters in the U.S. putting out wildfires.
Hydrate, Eat, Rest, and Repeat
Firefighters who are seeking guidance or need to review rehab practices and protocols should consult NFPA standard 1584. The materials for this year’s Firefighter Safety Stand Down campaign include helpful studies and handouts on nutrition, mental health, exposure mitigation, and other issues. Kerwood said the first responders should also take the time to study their agency’s rehabilitation action plans.
“They need to be prepared to take care of their own safety, as well as that of the rest of their crew,” he said. “We should, when we check out our apparatus, for example, at the start of the shift make sure that we have all the rehab supplies we need on that truck,” including cooling towels, hydration packs, and breath analyzers that measure carbon monoxide levels in the body.
“Because existing rehabilitation protocols were largely designed for incidents in built environments that have rapid access to medical care, protective equipment and portable facilities, such as decontamination showers, firefighters deployed to wildfires shouldn’t assume that all agencies have the proper gear and supplies for those incidents,” said Nathan Trauernicht, chief of the University of California – Davis Fire Department.
“But that also doesn’t mean the first responders shouldn’t ask for what they need,” he said. “For example, if a department doesn’t have a decontamination shower on the trucks to clean equipment at the scene, firefighters should ask the agency to provide cleaning wipes.
“Still,” Trauernicht said, ”firefighters should follow the basics of rehabilitation every time they take a break. For starters, they must hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate some more — and if possible take electrolytes. Because they burn tons of calories, they should eat foods that help replenish them. Their rehab routine should also include oxygen, blood pressure, and heart rate checks.
Rest, of course, is a must. And if firefighters need grief counseling or other mental health services, they should ask for them.”
More Improvements Needed
According to Kerwood and Trauernicht, while it’s very important for firefighters to diligently follow wildfire rehabilitation practices, they also urge first responders to stay physically and mentally fit. Being disciplined about their exercise, water intake and nutritional habits help them lessen their risk of injury or developing serious chronic illness.
“You may be off duty and not planning on engaging in your regular work activities, but when we send a strike team out, we start doing a station recall or several stations of recall,” Trauernicht said. “And you’re now in a position where you may be next out to go to a significant incident that’s going to require you to be nourished, hydrated, and rested.”
Kerwood and Trauernicht are among fire professionals who say agencies should do everything they can to protect the men and women in their departments who risk their lives daily.
Because it may become more commonplace for firefighters across the nation to work wildfires, Kerwood and Trauernicht said agencies need to accelerate changes to their standard operating manuals to keep up with trends.
They also would like to see administrators be more thoughtful about the protective gear and equipment they buy for their firefighters, because of the different environments they may encounter. For instance, the personal protective equipment firefighters wear for structure fires often isn’t appropriate if they need to fight a wildfire, because they can make them overheat. “When battling a wildfire, it’s about striking the right balance between protecting personnel from the obvious hazards of flames and the oftentimes the less recognized risk of heat stress,” Trauernicht said.
Manufacturers of protective personal gear and firefighting equipment should continue to pursue options that make it easier and safer for firefighters to work on wildfires. Trauernicht said he would also like to see additional research and emphasis on the development of respiratory protection solutions they would be able to use in those incidents.
As more and more studies shed light on the associations between the toxic substances firefighters are exposed to, the newer generations of firefighters are going to demand better PPE, Standard Operation Procedures for rehabilitation operations, and rehabilitation resources.
“If you look at the old photographs, not of just structure firefighters, but you look at wildland firefighters, and you see them with ashes and smudges on their face, and their gear’s nasty,” Kerwood said. “I mean, we all prided ourselves in that. Now, the folks that we’ve got coming in, it’s like, ‘Really? You lived that way?’
Our job as fire chiefs and fire service leaders, therefore, is to make sure ‘Everyone Goes Home.’”
And now that also includes fire leaders doing all they can to protect firefighters from heat stress, chronic disease, and other serious conditions they could develop from fighting fires.
Firefighting is a hot job no matter when you do it. But during the summer months, with all that extra heat and humidity, it can be brutal. How do you keep your cool — and cool down? Read on.
A blazing fire can be 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. In your heavy gear, the perspiration builds up and your core temperature can be as high as 160 degrees. After 20 minutes, you’re exhausted.Couple that with a hot summer’s day and it seems like there’s no relief in sight.
Here are some “do’s and don’ts” to help you cool down and stay safe on a hot summer’s day on and off duty.
Do: Stay hydrated.
Water is your drink of choice. (Or try coconut water which contains potassium, a great source of electrolytes.) Drink water whether you are thirsty or not. And drink it three days leading up to your shift—because it will help keep you hydrated. When you’re fighting an active fire, your body will evaporate 1 liter of sweat for each hour of work. Make sure to replace that loss by drinking electrolyte beverages as soon as you are able.
Don’t: Drink caffeinated beverages, sugared drinks, or alcohol.
Caffeine constricts blood vessels which makes you warm. Coffee, tea and caffeinated beverages are a diuretic, which means they cause you to urinate. Sugary drinks actually make you thirsty and can provide a crash in energy. Alcohol causes dehydration. Drink it the night before your shift and you will feel the effects the next day.
Do: Eat for the heat.
That means light healthy meals so your body doesn’t have to work as hard to process them. Include foods that help replenish electrolytes that are lost through sweating. These include watermelon, peaches, apricots, and radishes. Leafy greens also contain a large percentage of water, which helps keep you hydrated.
Don’t: Eat a heavy meal.
It takes a lot of energy for our bodies to digest a steak dinner. When our body breaks down protein, it creates heat. You don’t have to eliminate meat altogether; just take it easy and substitute more carbs.
When you’re in shape, you have a lower heart rate and body temperature. This allows you to adjust to heat stress twice as fast as your fellow Americans who are unfit.
Don’t: Push your physical limits.
It takes time to acclimate to working in the heat. Start gradually and increase over time. It takes about 10-14 days to get used to it. Listen to your body. It will tell you when you’re ready for a break.
Don’t: Run the air conditioner on the way to the fire.
The temperature change from cool to very, very hot can affect your body. Instead, keep the windows open and the air blowing but the air conditioning off on the way to a call.
Do: Use ice, water, and cooling technology.
Set up a bucket filled with ice water so that you can immerse your hands and forearms. Put a damp towel in the freezer and wrap it around the back of your neck when you need relief. Apply cold pressure to other pulse points: your wrist, chest, temples. Spritz yourself with a garden hose; dribble water down the back of your neck from your water bottle. Try a cold pack vest if it fits under your gear. But stay away from misting fans in a humid environment. They’re good for dry environments, but in high humidity, these fans can increase the chance of burns.
More than 700 people die each year from the heat. If you are feeling warm, light-headed or experiencing muscle cramps, get out of your jacket to let the heat escape. Apply icepacks to your forearms.
If you experience any of the symptoms of heatstroke, seek help immediately:
Body temperature above 103 Fahrenheit
Dizziness
Nausea
Headache
Red, hot and dry skin
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
For more information on First Responder heat stress prevention, click here.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Late summer riding beckons; open roads, open skies, long days, and beautiful sunsets. The flipside? Extreme heat. And also a transition period of reacquainting yourself with the roads and traffic. Use these tips to keep your bike and yourself cool and safe.
For Your Bike
Keeping your ride cool and running smoothly through the summer usually entails a little extra maintenance. Here are some of the priority areas to fitness-check before setting out.
Tires – Tire blowouts are usually caused by underinflated, rather than overinflated, tires. Make sure to inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. And remember that high external temps cause tire pressure to increase due to expanding gas. Check them each week and adjust as necessary. Also keep an eye on the tires’ condition, looking for any cracks, punctures, bulges, or worn tread.
Fluids – Check oil, brake, coolant, hydraulic fluids, and their reservoirs for debris, condensation, and discoloration or changed consistency. Get them changed if they’re due. Check the water pump and hoses regularly for leaks, cracks, and tears. Pro tip: cover your radiator to keep the engine cool (and protect it from dirt, bugs and UV rays). On the hottest days, avoid stationary idling to prevent engine overheating.
Gas tank – If your bike has been sitting all winter with fuel in the tank, it might not start up. Drain the tank — if there’s any brown grit in the fuel, your tank has probably rusted. You can take it to a mechanic or DIY by flushing with acid remover. After cleaning, treat the new gasoline with a fuel stabilizer.
Electrical connections – If your electrical connections aren’t secure, the moisture from humid environments can short the connection and stop your bike from functioning. Inspect all wires and connections to components (including battery) and fasten any loose ones. If they’re corroded, it’s best to replace them.
For You
Riding in extreme heat can increase your chance of health risks, overheating, and accident risk. Follow these tips to stay safe and comfortable.
Hydration – Staying hydrated is one of the best preventive measures for summer riding. Drink water at every stop and consider purchasing a CamelBak for extended rides. Avoid alcohol, as it can easily dehydrate you.
Sun safety – Even if it’s overcast, you’re still getting hit by UV rays. Wear sunscreen and reapply to exposed skin as often as possible.
Clothing – Safe riding means extra layers, even in the summer heat. Here are some hacks to keep you cool in your gear.
Form-fitting sportswear can keep your body temperature down – look for moisture-wicking fabric.
A lightweight base layer under your jacket and pants can prevent discomfort and keep you dry.
When leather pants are too hot, check out specialized jeans that have Kevlar fabric lining and other safety components. Never wear shorts.
Opt for ventilated summer-weight boots, which allow airflow to cool the feet and ankles.
Mesh-backed gloves will let you grip the handles while allowing for ventilation – as well as hand protection in case of a fall or skid.
There are options for jackets that protect while keeping you comfortable in the heat. Ventilated jackets with mesh panels allow for aeration, and many perforated leather jackets come with zip vents, which help you release body heat.
A proper helmet – required by law in all but 3 states – is safety rule number one. Investing in a breathable, lightweight and ventilated helmet will keep your head (and by extension, your body) cool and protected. The best ones are usually carbon fiber.
Get Re-Accustomed to the Road
If you’ve been traveling mostly by car and are just getting back to the roads on 2 wheels, give yourself some time to re-adjust. You no longer have the wrap-around metal protection of a vehicle, and you may need to fine-tune your reaction time for sharing the road with cars.
Most motorcycle accidents are attributed to unsafe lane changes, car doors, speeding, sudden stops, left-turn accidents, and lane splitting, among others, so make sure you’re visible to the cars around you.
Finally, know the signs of heat stress (check out our article here). It can come on suddenly, so knowledge and prevention are your tools to stay cool and healthy.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Your tires do a lot more than roll you from point A to point B. They keep you safe, improve fuel efficiency, and make every drive smoother and quieter. Yet terms like rotation, alignment, and balancing often sound like auto shop jargon best left to the pros. In this Tires 101 guide, we break down what these services really mean, why they matter, and how a little tire care can go a long way toward protecting your vehicle — and your wallet.
Tire Rotation
What is tire rotation?
Tire rotation is the practice of moving your tires to different positions on your vehicle — front to back, side to side, or diagonally — so they wear more evenly over time. Because each tire position experiences different forces, rotation helps distribute that wear instead of allowing one tire to do all the hard work.
Why tire rotation matters
Even tread wear means longer-lasting tires, better traction, and a smoother ride. Rotating your tires also helps maintain predictable handling and braking, especially in wet or slippery conditions. As a bonus, evenly worn tires roll more efficiently, which can help improve fuel economy.
What happens when you skip rotation
When tires are not rotated, they wear unevenly and wear out faster — sometimes thousands of miles sooner than expected. Front tires, in particular, tend to wear more quickly on most vehicles because they handle the bulk of steering, braking, and acceleration. Over time, uneven wear can lead to noise, vibration, and reduced grip on the road.
How often rotation is needed
Most vehicles benefit from tire rotation every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Many drivers pair tire rotation with routine oil changes, making it easy to remember and stay consistent.
How rotation is done
The rotation pattern depends on several factors: your vehicle’s drive system (front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive), whether your tires are directional, and whether the front and rear tires are the same size.
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Front tires move straight back; rear tires move to the front and switch sides.
Rear-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive (RWD/AWD): Rear tires move straight forward; front tires move to the back and switch sides.
Directional Tires: Designed to roll in one direction only, these tires can move front to back but must stay on the same side.
Staggered or high-performance setups: If front and rear tires are different sizes, they are typically rotated side to side only.
Pro Tip: If you have a full-size spare that matches your other tires, ask whether it can be included in the rotation to keep it in good condition and ready for use.
Tire Alignment
What is tire alignment?
Tire alignment — also called wheel alignment — ensures your wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels, so they point straight ahead and make optimal contact with the road.
Why tire alignment matters
Proper alignment helps your vehicle drive straight, handle predictably, and wear tires evenly. When your wheels are aligned correctly, your steering feels more responsive, your ride is smoother, and your tires last longer.
What happens when alignment is off
Misaligned wheels can cause tires to wear unevenly or prematurely. You may notice your vehicle pulling to one side, your steering wheel sitting off-center, or increased rolling resistance that forces your engine to work harder. Over time, poor alignment can reduce fuel efficiency, increase stopping distances in emergencies, and even cause steering wheel vibration.
How often alignment is needed
A good rule of thumb is to have your alignment checked once a year or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. You may also need an alignment after hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards — or anytime your vehicle doesn’t feel quite right.
How alignment is done
Alignment adjustments are made to your vehicle’s suspension system, not the tires themselves. Technicians fine-tune three key angles:
Toe: The degree to which tires point inward or outward when viewed from above.
Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle.
Caster: The forward or backward tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side.
Together, these adjustments ensure your wheels work in harmony rather than fighting against one another.
Tire Balancing
What is tire balancing?
Tire balancing ensures that the weight of each tire and wheel assembly is evenly distributed around the entire circumference. Proper balance allows your wheels to spin smoothly without vibration.
Why tire balancing matters
Balanced tires improve ride comfort, reduce vibration, and help your tires wear evenly. They also minimize stress on your suspension and steering components, contributing to better overall vehicle performance.
What happens when tires are unbalanced
When a tire has a heavy spot, it can wobble as it spins, causing noticeable vibrations, especially at highway speeds. Unbalanced tires may lose consistent contact with the road, leading to uneven tread wear and shortened tire life. Over time, this imbalance can also strain suspension and steering parts.
How often balancing is needed
Tires should be balanced every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, typically at the same time they are rotated. Balancing is also recommended whenever you install new tires or notice unusual vibrations.
How balancing is done
A technician mounts the tire and wheel assembly on a computerized balancing machine that detects weight imbalances. Based on the machine’s readings, small lead, zinc, or steel weights — either clip-on or adhesive — are placed on the wheel rim. The tire is then re-spun to confirm that the weight is evenly distributed.
General Tire Care
Keeping your tires in good shape goes beyond rotation, alignment, and balancing. Regular inspections and proper inflation play a critical role in tire safety and longevity.
Check tire pressure regularly using a gauge, ideally when tires are cold — meaning they haven’t been driven for at least three hours. The correct pressure can be found in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.
Underinflated tires generate excess heat and stress, leading to irregular wear and increased risk of failure.
Overinflated tires are more susceptible to punctures and road damage.
It’s also wise to visually inspect your tires for cuts, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects so small issues can be addressed before they become major problems.
Finally, make sure your vehicle is fully insured for added peace of mind.
Safe travels from all of us at California Casualty.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
If you’ve noticed your dog looking a little rounder than usual, you’re not alone. It happens gradually, almost sneakily — even to the most loving and attentive owners. The good news? Helping your dog get back to a healthy weight doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be a rewarding, bonding journey filled with new routines, more play, and a happier, more energetic pup.
Why Those Extra Pounds Matter
A chubby dog may look adorable, but the health risks are anything but cute. Obesity is linked to serious conditions in pets, including:
Arthritis
Diabetes
Heart, liver, and kidney disease
Certain cancers
A shortened lifespan
Even a few extra pounds can place stress on your dog’s joints and organs. Think of weight-loss efforts not as a diet, but as an investment — one that pays off in more comfortable movement, better sleep, extra years of life, and that unmistakable sparkle in your dog’s eyes when they feel good.
Is Your Dog Overweight?
Every dog breed has its own natural shape, so it’s important to look at your pet’s individual build. Here are three simple checks you can do at home. These quick visual cues give you a starting point, but your veterinarian remains the best source for an accurate assessment.
Rib Check
Run your hands along your dog’s ribcage. You should be able to feel the ribs easily beneath a thin layer of fat — not pressing hard, just lightly gliding your fingers.
Waist Check
Look down at your dog from above. Do you see an obvious waistline behind the ribs? If not, or if the body looks oval instead of hourglass, that may indicate extra weight.
Tummy Tuck Check
Now look from the side. Your dog’s abdomen should slope upward slightly from the ribcage toward the hind legs. A sagging or straight line usually means excess fat around the belly.
Start with a Vet Visit
Before making any changes, schedule a checkup. Think of your vet as your dog’s personal trainer and nutritionist rolled into one. Your veterinarian can:
Rule out underlying health issues like arthritis or thyroid disease
Identify an ideal weight goal
Recommend a safe daily calorie target
Suggest food options tailored to your dog’s needs
Think Slow and Steady
Crash diets are unsafe for dogs and ineffective long-term. A healthy pace for canine weight loss is typically 1–5% of current body weight per month. Gradual progress prevents metabolism slowdowns, reduces hunger-driven begging, and helps your dog lose fat while maintaining muscle. Small improvements, made consistently, lead to big results.
Choosing the Right Food
You may want to stay with your dog’s current food or switch to a healthier diet. That doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive bag on the shelf. What matters is choosing a formula that aligns with your dog’s goals. Options to consider include:
Prescription weight-loss diets: Great for dogs with significant weight to lose or underlying health issues.
Low-calorie kibble: Many brands offer lighter formulas.
Senior formulas: Often lower in calories to match lower activity levels in older dogs.
Wet food: Higher water content keeps pups fuller while reducing overall calories.
Count the Calories (Yes, It Matters!)
Just like with people, portion size is often the real culprit.
Measure every meal — don’t eyeball it.
Use a kitchen scale or a measuring scoop for accuracy.
Track calories from treats. (They count!)
When it comes to treats, think outside the (biscuit) box. Many dogs enjoy baby carrots, blueberries, plain green beans, or ice cubes. These crunchy snacks satisfy without blowing the daily calorie budget.
Smaller, More Frequent Meals
If your schedule allows, breaking meals into two or three smaller feedings throughout the day can help curb hunger and begging. This simple shift can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort—and your sanity.
Movement: Make It Fun — and Make It Daily
You don’t have to train for a marathon. You just need to get moving together. Aim for 30 minutes of daily activity, adjusted for your dog’s fitness and health. Options your dog may enjoy include:
If your dog is significantly overweight, start slow. Watch for heavy panting, lagging behind, or signs of discomfort. Keep water available and increase activity gradually. Most importantly, make it enjoyable. Your dog will feed off your energy — so smile, laugh, chat with your pup, and celebrate the moments you’re spending together.
Keep Track of Progress
Some animal hospitals offer free weight checks, and many pet stores have scales as well. Progress can be subtle at first, but seeing those numbers shift (even a little!) is incredibly motivating.
Celebrating non-scale victories keeps the journey positive. You can also track:
Energy level
Mobility
Ease of getting up
Endurance on walks
Coat condition
Get the Whole Family on Board
Helping your dog reach a healthy weight is an act of love, and consistency is key. If one person sneaks table scraps, adds extra kibble, or gives too many treats, progress stalls. Agree as a household on the plan — portions, treats, activity, and rules. That way, your dog gets a clear, consistent message and a greater chance at success.
A Final Note About Protection
Health journeys sometimes come with unplanned vet expenses. Having pet insurance can help offset larger costs and keep your dog’s wellness on track. You can easily add Pet’s Best pet insurance to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Talk with a California Casualty customer service representative to learn more about what pet insurance can cover.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
