Yesterday several of our firefighters spent the day repairing a damaged deck for a longtime community member, helping make their home safer and more accessible. This kind of work may not always make headlines, but it represents the heart of what we do- we take care of our community. A lot of us grew up around here, and the rest of us moved here because Irmo is a pretty special place. When we say “our community” we’re talking about our friends and neighbors.
During a medical response we noticed that he deck was dangerously unstable, so we took it upon ourselves to solve the problem. Normally we’re very skilled at taking things apart, but yesterday we got the chance to build something important for one of our residents.
Taking care of our residents goes beyond responding to emergencies. We’re also invested in preventing them if we can. Simple hazards like loose boards, uneven steps, or unstable railings can turn into serious risks, leading to falls or other injuries. By stepping in early to address these issues, we can reduce preventable emergencies before they happen. This keeps our residents safer and preserves independence for our aging residents, helping them age in place. Aging in place is being able to live safely and independently in your own home as you grow older, something many of us hope for ourselves or our loved ones and something that preserves the character of our community for as long as possible.
Not a single thumb was smashed yesterday, but we did find out that a couple of us struggle to read a tape measure.
We’re proud to serve beyond the fireground and to partner with our community in meaningful ways. Stay safe our there, and remember, we’re always here for you.
