Cases of Epilepsy in the fire service

[tbcrook]

Hi,
I am a firefighter and was diagnosed with a seizure disorder about 8.5 years ago. The seizures are controlled with meds but I am running into some restrictions as far as what I can and can't do when i'm on duty. My employer is working with me but I am trying to do some research on other people that have been in this situation and what they did to handle it so I have as much ammunition as possible to keep myself and the fire department out of any sticky situations. Please respond with any advice or resources that would help. Thank you.

 

[LW6279]

I use to be an EMT but I would not be able to do that now with the lights and drive. Pluse my siezures are not controlled. Now I work in a dispatch center.

 

[FFShawn]

I'm a FF/EMT but currently on medical leave, but my department is still allowing me to do all training except for live fire drills and even those I am still participate by running pumps or refilling air bottles. I was diagnosed 2.5 years ago but am still fairly active with the department, just don't get to run on calls unless I'm riding with duty officer or for investigation and mostly doing photos or filming fire behavior from the outside so our department can learn what we are doing right or wrong on fire scenes. I have also been able to do educational programs with schools for teaching CPR, AED usage, and Fire Risk Watch for K-12 students.

Once I am cleared to drive, my department is going to keep working with me and our department doctors to see what I can and cant do. I would talk with your Platoon LT or Station Captain to see how they would be willing to assist you.

Depending on the types of seizures you are having will be the biggest thing determining what you can and can't do. According to NFPA regulations it is the departments discretion on how long you have to be seizure free and the limitations to be set.

It has taken me a while to realize this but it is not your safety at risk, but as well as your fellow fire brothers and sisters and the public in which you serve. All I want to do is go jump on a truck every time my pager goes off but have finally realized it just is not possible at this point and the more active I am with the department, the more I realize what effects my seizures and what doesn't. I am also with a busy combination department and am a volunteer so that makes a difference too. Sorry for the long response!