Texas Fire Chief - Fall/Winter 2008 - (Page 11)

occurrence, the probable magnitude of the outcome or both. To fully understand risk management, we must understand the definition of risk. NFPA 1500 defines risk as a measure of the probability and severity of adverse ef- fects. These adverse effects result from an exposure to a hazard. Our fire departments provide a variety of emergency services, which involve operations that could result in an undesirable outcome, including death or injury to our members. Other undesirable outcomes include loss or damage to the organization’s apparatus, equipment or facilities. Regardless of the type of service or business, all organizations must manage some type of risk. The North Richland Hills Fire Department is committed to the preservation of the lives and property of the citizens of North Richland Hills, Texas. This commitment is accomplished through public education, fire prevention and investigation, emergency medical services, fire suppression and rescue services, and emergency management and homeland security planning. This commitment to our citizens and city is accomplished by the rapid response of highly competent, professional fire department personnel with high quality, well maintained apparatus and equipment. There is no single method or solution for effectively managing risk. Determining how to manage risk is a decision each individual department must make based on the risk management model. To insure for the success of this process, the North Richland Hills Fire Department will review and revise this plan on an annual basis. Purpose Risk management in the fire service does not just focus on preventing dollar loss; it is about preventing injuries, disability and loss of life. Risk management involves direct, hands-on provision of services as well as various indirect aspects, including the development of effective training programs and the selection of qualified personnel. Regardless of its specific focus, the overall purpose of risk management is to reduce the frequency and severity of preventable, adverse events that create losses. Risk management is comprised of many elements including liability, insurance, safety, health, security, financial impact and many others. The risks encountered by emergency responders are many, such as fires, traffic, response hazards, blood and body f luids and violence to name a few. To control these risks effectively, the fire department must use a risk management plan. The primary purpose of the risk management plan is the health and safety of its members. Benefits There are four major benefits of risk management: • Compliance is a benefit that will allow a more orderly, 11 TEXAS FIRE CHIEF Fall/Winter 2008

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Texas Fire Chief - Fall/Winter 2008

Texas Fire Chief - Fall/Winter 2008 Contents Executive Director’s Report Texas Fire Chiefs Academy Project Reports Southwest Fire Rescue Conference Program Membership Application Customer Service Orientation in Fire Rescue Departments A Visit to the E-One Plant Index to Advertisers

Texas Fire Chief - Fall/Winter 2008

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