“Long Hair Always Pulled Up”: 40 First Responders Share Safety Advice That Could Save A Life

To learn more about this topic, we got in touch with Reddit user Zapinsure. They were kind enough to have a chat with Bored Panda and reveal what inspired them to start this conversation.

"The abundance of wrong or bad advice currently circulating on the internet and in cinema," the author noted. "I've heard tidbits of survival myths being debunked by first responders, firefighters, policemen, etc., and I wanted more insight on what NOT to do in a nasty situation. And I knew the answers would be thought-provoking."

The OP also shared some safety tips that they think everyone should know. "Don't be a hero. Too many people want to save a dog from a burning building or zap someone with a defibrillator because they saw Ryan Reynolds do it on TV," Zapinsure says. "Firefighters have had to save 2 bodies instead of just 1 from a burning building because Joe Superman collapsed from heat exposure and smoke inhalation after diving into a literal inferno. Leave it to the professionals."

"The best place to store water is inside your body," the author continued. "If you've seen 127 hours, it's based on a true story. A man gets trapped under a rock for several days and forces himself to ration his water. This likely didn't help his chances of survival. If you're down to your last bottle, and you're parched as a beached whale, then drink it all. This will stave off the effects of dehydration and help you to better devise a plan. Rationing is for food, not water."

Zapinsure also says that, if you're lost, it's best to simply stay put. "People that are reported missing are often rescued within 24 hours, provided they don't leave their last known location," they noted. "Make sure your last known location is known to someone. Tell a friend where you're going and when they can expect you back."

We also asked the OP what they thought of the replies to their post. "[They] were variable and somewhat helpful. Some of them I have had to apply to a degree, and some of them I hope I never have to apply," they shared. "Here is an example of one. This is the reply of a 16 year firefighter: 'If there's a fire and you get out... Don't. Go. Back. Inside."

"Here is another reply by a user with unknown professional background: 'Going into the water to save another person without an appropriate kit and training... Seriously, just NO. Do not do it, doesn't much matter how strong a swimmer you think you are!'"

Zapinsure says they've actually applied this advice to a degree. "I've been a Divemaster since 2023, and panicked divers are unpredictable at best. As part of my training, if a panicked diver latches onto you, we are trained to descend into the water because the LAST place a panicked diver wants to go is back under water. They will release you, so that you can re-access them from the rear."

"Lastly, trust your gut," the author told Bored Panda. "This is huge. I'm sure this has saved my bacon without even realizing it. People are dangerous, and we are well adapted to this. I've crossed busy streets just to avoid one person. I have violated the terms of social conventions just to distance myself from a single individual who just ain't right. That yucky feeling in your stomach will save your life."

Finally, Zapinsure added, "It is a fascinating world we live in, and it's best to be ready for it."

We were also lucky enough to get in touch with David Dachinger, retired Fire Lieutenant and Executive Producer and Host of the Responder Resilience podcast, to hear his thoughts on this topic. First, he shared some of the most important safety tips that we should all know.

"These are simple, logistical ways to make it easier for first responders to help you in an emergency," he noted. First, make sure that your home has a visible house number. "Ensure your house number is clearly visible from the road, especially at night. If needed, direct responders with lights or have someone flag them down."

It's also key to make sure that first responders have clear access to your house. "Move vehicles blocking access to your home and secure pets to avoid complications," David says. "Clear a path for stretchers, and ensure the entrance is unobstructed for ambulance and crew access."

Patient information is also important. "Have the patient’s medical information ready, including Do Not Resuscitate paperwork, medical history, medications, and allergies," the expert continued. "This speeds up care and helps with decision-making."

Finally, David says, "Keep a 'File of Life' form with current contact and health care information on your fridge. Know where medications are located for quick access during emergencies."

David also says that, if you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to just call 911. "One important thing that many civilians may not know is that, once we arrive on the scene, we evaluate the patient's condition," he shared. "If the patient is over 18, not experiencing a medical emergency, and can clearly communicate their wishes, we cannot force them to go to the hospital."

"In such cases, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will have the patient sign a 'refusal' form, allowing them to seek care on their own," David continued. "However, if a patient is unconscious, has a severe injury, or is unable to communicate due to their condition, consent for treatment and transport is implied, since a reasonable person would acknowledge that treatment is necessary."

Next, we asked David what first responders want everyone to understand. "Your safety is our top priority. We take pride in responding to calls with our fire trucks and ambulances to assist those in need," he shared. "Please don’t hesitate to call us when you have an emergency; it's better to let us check it out instead of trying to handle it on your own. We have the training, experience, and specialized tools to address nearly any situation."

The expert also wants to remind readers to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when they adjust their clocks. "A small investment in batteries is priceless compared to the potential devastation of not being alerted quickly to a smoke, fire, or carbon monoxide threat," David warns. "Many fire departments offer services to check your detectors and replace batteries for citizens and seniors as a public service."