DC's 9-1-1 center is part of the Office Unified Communications (OUC). But, I sit here thinking how it should be reacronymed to OUCH. Residents, visitors and people who work in our nation's Capitol call them on the worst days of their lives. 

To understand the story, you have to read Dave Statter's article (linked below) and watch the videos that are referenced there. He's been doing the heavy lifting on this story for some time now. And, he proposes a comprehensive external audit to help find the way forward.

Juan Brown brings his wildfire/aircrew perspective to the story. Cites drought and lack of forestry management (excess fuel) as fire factors.

No one ever expects tragedy to happen, and yet tragedy has and will continue to happen every day to someone. When tragedy does happen, those involved look for someone to take charge and be a leader.

Each victim is assessed, triaged -- categorized. Who is beyond help? Who needs immediate Care? Who can wait? Who just needs a ride? Finding body after body after body.

Here's a story where AIr Traffic Control (ATC) cleared a pilot to a safe altitude. The pilot read back an incorrect (potentially unsafe) altitude --  and, ATC failed to notice. It turned out ok.

What can EMS learn?

https://www.boldmethod.com/learn-to-fly/safety/atc-misses-incorrect-pilot-readback-ifr-jet-in-mountains/ ↗️

You can readily see some parallels. Multitasking, high stress, life and death, vital communications...

You may have seen recent news regarding an altercation involving two FDNY paramedics ↗️while on duty. 

The Inside EMS Podcast with Chris Cebollro and Kelly Grayson explores root issues behind altercations such as this.

Grayson cites a failure of leadership and unnecessary organizational pressures.

A one hour on-demand video with Mike McEvoy, PhD, NRP, RN, CCRN, EMS Coordinator Saratoga County, New York & Executive Editor, JEMS

The content is sponsored by  iSimulate.

https://www.jems.com/webcasts/monitoring-and-hydration-in-firefighter-rehab/↗️(Link opens a new tab)

My first reaction was, "We have a box???" But, the article explores things that individuals or agencies can use to improve the well being of first responders. There's a reason it was probably the subject of the first chapter in your EMS textbook.

The writer, a patrol officer with Taunton (Mass.) PD, should get credit for having figured us out. You know we're all broken toys.   So, take some moments for yourself and let the healing begin.

[Edited, 16Jan20, to clarify communications from the aircrew and for the addition of link(s) to a pilot's-perspective analysis of the incident. Also, 17Jan20 to add link to Part Two of Juan Brown's video. --ed]

Maybe there's too much LED and Xenon light on scene -- potentially blinding or distracting motorists. Too much red. Not enough amber. You drive where you LOOK!

There are recommendations I have read, that would drastically reduce warning lights, once traffic control is established.

Please take a moment and read the linked presentation.

I-95 Corridor Coalition › Gui...PDF
WARNING LIGHTS, PARKING and SCENE SAFETY 
https://i95coalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Guide_Clear_RF.pdf%onscene.us