Firefighter Injuries in British Columbia: An Examination of Frequency, Severity, Locational and Temporal aspects

When firefighter injuries occur, especially at the fire-ground, they tend to evoke heightened media attention as well as public concern and interest. While these concerns are understandable given the potential for injuries and casualties at the fire-ground or at other emergency incidents, such concerns must be placed into context. Firefighter injuries may potentially lead to severe or debilitating health outcomes, especially when incurred at the fire-ground. However, firefighter injuries in the province of British Columbia (BC) are infrequent; with few cases requiring hospitalization or extended medical leave.