Fire Chief Whalen discusses the importance of water safety and upcoming summer preparedness in Coral Springs and Parkland
Coral Springs, Florida – As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, we welcome the arrival of spring and eagerly anticipate the summer months ahead. This season brings with it a time for reflection, as well as a chance to renew our commitment to the communities of Coral Springs and Parkland. The fire department continues its mission to keep our residents safe, informed, and resilient. As we enter this quarter, several key observances highlight our dedication to serving you and upholding the values that guide us every day.
Water Safety: Preparing for Summer Fun
With the warm weather approaching, we know that water-related activities will soon become a staple of daily life in our community. Whether it’s swimming in the pool, enjoying a day at the beach, or relaxing by the lake, water safety is more important than ever. Drowning continues to be one of the leading causes of accidental death, especially among children. To address this pressing issue, the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department is proud to host April Pools Day on April 26th, a family-friendly event that focuses on educating the public about water safety. This event is designed to provide essential information on preventing drownings and ensuring that everyone enjoys water activities in the safest possible manner.
“Drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in children, and simple precautions can save lives,” says Fire Chief Whalen. For more details or to register for this crucial event, visit coralsprings.gov/aprilpools. We encourage everyone to take part in this initiative to ensure that our families and neighbors can enjoy the water safely.
National EMS Week: Honoring Our Emergency Medical Professionals
Looking ahead to National EMS Week, which will take place from May 18-25, we take a moment to recognize the critical role that our emergency medical services (EMS) personnel play in our community. Our firefighters are not only skilled in extinguishing fires and responding to emergencies, but each one is also a dual-certified firefighter-paramedic. This means that they respond to medical calls as first-response units, making their expertise vital in times of medical crisis.
This year, our department has taken significant strides to improve our emergency medical services with the introduction of the epoc Blood Analysis System. This state-of-the-art technology allows our paramedics to receive immediate blood lab results, empowering them to diagnose and treat patients more effectively in the field. During National EMS Week, we will honor the dedication and professionalism of our EMS personnel, who work tirelessly to provide life-saving care in the most challenging situations.
Remembering Our Fallen Heroes
In May, we will also observe National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend from May 3-4, a solemn occasion to remember the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives in the line of duty. This year, our department will travel to Emmitsburg, Maryland, to pay tribute to Firefighter/Paramedic James “Nate” Leonard, who tragically lost his battle with occupational cancer. Nate’s legacy lives on in the courage and selflessness that our first responders demonstrate every day. As we reflect on their sacrifices, we are reminded of the risks that come with the profession and the importance of supporting our brave men and women in uniform.
Health Awareness: Protecting Your Loved Ones
The month of May also brings significant health awareness initiatives, starting with Stroke Awareness Month. A stroke is a medical emergency, and recognizing the signs early can save a life. Our first responders are highly trained to act quickly when responding to stroke cases, but your ability to spot the signs can make a critical difference. The best way to remember the symptoms is through the acronym F.A.S.T.:
• F – Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb? Ask the person to smile and see if it’s uneven.
• A – Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward.
• S – Speech Difficulty: Is their speech slurred or hard to understand? Ask them to repeat a simple sentence.
• T – Time to Call 911: If you observe any of these signs, even if they go away, call 911 immediately.
May is also First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day on May 10, which is an important opportunity to address the emotional and psychological toll of the profession. As a department, we are committed to ensuring that our personnel have access to mental health resources and a supportive environment. We continue to foster a culture of open dialogue and well-being for those who serve our community.
National Water Safety Month: Essential Tips for Families
In conjunction with National Stroke Awareness Month, May is also National Water Safety Month, offering a timely reminder to ensure your family follows essential water safety guidelines. The importance of knowing how to swim, following safety rules, and supervising children near pools or any bodies of water cannot be overstated. For helpful tips and resources, be sure to visit coralsprings.gov/watersafety. This month provides an excellent opportunity for all of us to ensure that we are prepared for the water-related risks that come with summer.
Looking Ahead: Continuing Our Commitment
As we move forward into the warmer months, the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department remains dedicated to serving and protecting our community. Whether it’s through providing water safety education, improving our EMS services, or honoring the sacrifices of our fallen heroes, we are constantly striving to make Coral Springs and Parkland safer, healthier places to live. We look forward to continuing to work together to build resilient, strong communities.
Stay safe, enjoy the season, and remember that we are always here for you.
