First responders treat Christmas like any other day

CBS First Responders

ALBANY, N.Y. (WRGB) – Emergencies don’t take a holiday, so those who serve the community don’t either.

First responders treat Christmas Day like any other day.

For them, it’s important to stay prepared as they might have to spring into action on a moment’s notice.

Some are working on Christmas Day, so their colleagues with young children can get the day off and spend time with them.

Although it may be difficult to not be around family, some say working on Christmas Day is a privilege.

“Working in emergency services such as fire, police, law enforcement, we don’t take holidays off. If our schedule happens to fall upon the day of that holiday, we come in to work,” said Marc Cocco, EMT Supervisor for Mohawk Ambulance Service. “During the holidays, emergencies still happen and our dedication to our community is why we do this.”

Cocco tells CBS6’s Lynsey Smith that it’s a good reason first responders are working on Christmas, because the amount of calls they receive are about the same as a regular day.

Cold Weather Safety Advice

Adam Nato

Adam Nato joined CBS 6 Sunday morning to talk about cold weather safety. He says frostbite and hypothermia are two dangerous and potentially life-threatening emergencies.

Power outages and the loss of running water can present serious threats in the winter months.

When temperatures are below freezing, your water pipes are in danger of freezing and possibly bursting. Run faucets at a drip to prevent.

Cities will open CODE BLUE shelters when temperatures are dangerously cold. Know where emergency shelters are and go there in the event of a power/water outage.

Check on neighbors who may be vulnerable, the elderly, those with disabilities. Bring pets indoors. If it’s too cold for you outside, it’s too cold for them.

All fuel-burning equipment, fireplaces and woodstoves, should be vented to the outside and kept clear of debris. Be sure to check these. Never use a generator or gas burning stove inside or in the garage. These can build up dangerous fumes like carbon monoxide.

Don’t ignore winter travel advisories. If officials tell you it’s dangerous to be on the roads, take that advice seriously. If you absolutely have to go out, make sure your fluids are topped off and keep your gas gauge above half full if you can.

It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car:

– Food and water
– Blankets
– First aid supplies and medication
– Hygiene products
– Cell phone charger
– Always tell someone where you’re going beforehand so if you get into trouble, they know you may need help.