Community Risk Reduction (CRR)

What is CRR?

CRR is not totally new to our department. In the past, we have referred to it as a fire prevention program. We have been involved in fire safety education, checked and installed smoke detectors upon request, and have added staffing along with purchasing apparatus, tools, and equipment to meet community needs. However, CRR—encouraged by the NFPA—is a broader, all-hazard approach that focuses on reducing risks from fire, medical, and other emergencies. Its goal is to reduce the risks, their frequency, and their severity.

How Do We Reduce the Risk?

There are six key steps in our process:

• Identify the risks.
• Prioritize the risk.
• Develop strategies & tactics to mitigate the risks.
• Prepare a CRR plan.
• Implement the plan.
• Monitor, evaluate, & modify the plan.

Where Are We With This?

With the data currently available, we have identified various risks that we have either responded to or could potentially face. These risks have been prioritized, and four key focus areas have been chosen—low-budget items with great impact and achievable goals. We are currently developing strategies and tactics for the following areas:

• CPR: Immediate bystander CPR increases survival chances.
• Car Seats: Proper installation and vehicle restraints save lives and reduce injuries.
• Residential Occupancies:
  • Smoke alarms: Early notification saves lives and reduces property loss.
  • Fire escape plans: Ensuring each occupant knows at least two exits.
  • House numbers: Enhanced visibility helps emergency responders locate residences.
  • Floor plans: Crews need to know where occupants are likely to be during an emergency.
• Business Occupancies:
  • Pre-plans: Identify hazards, plan responses, and determine needed resources.
  • Knox boxes: Provide keys for emergency access by fire personnel.
  • AED: Ensure each building has an easily accessible Automated External Defibrillator.
  • CPR Training: Encourage businesses to train their personnel, potentially saving lives and offering insurance discounts.

What is Next?

I am working with others to develop strategies and tactics for these identified risks and to complete our CRR process. This is just Stage 1—more initiatives and refinements will follow as we continue to improve community safety.

What is the Benefit of CRR?

A robust CRR program benefits both the citizens we serve and our department. It improves life safety and reduces property loss, identifies training needs, and helps manage call volume—ultimately reducing wear on apparatus and enhancing firefighter safety. Additionally, it contributes to an improved ISO rating, benefiting the entire community.

Our Risk Reduction Statement

At Brookline Fire Protection District, we are deeply committed to the safety and well-being of our community. Our comprehensive CRR initiatives address a spectrum of potential risks by focusing on fire prevention, education, smoke detectors, car seats, and CPR training. By actively engaging with residents and fostering a culture of safety, we aim to create a resilient community where every individual is empowered to protect themselves and others in times of need.

Key Components:

• Fire Prevention: We collaborate with local businesses, community organizations, and residents to identify and mitigate potential fire hazards through education and outreach.
• Education: Our initiatives span from basic fire safety practices to hands-on CPR training, empowering individuals during emergencies.
• Smoke Detectors: We ensure every home is equipped with functional detectors by providing installation assistance, maintenance guidance, and awareness campaigns.
• Car Seats: Our certified technicians offer car seat safety checks to reduce the risk of injuries in motor vehicle incidents.
• CPR Training: We offer CPR training programs to boost the number of community members ready to respond effectively in cardiac emergencies.

In collaboration with residents, local organizations, and other stakeholders, we continually refine and expand our CRR efforts. Our goal is to build a community that is not only prepared for emergencies but is actively engaged in risk reduction.