A Message from Fire Chief McNally

Published on July 01, 2022

Chief Michael McNally

As we enter the third quarter of 2022, we know the hottest months of the year are ahead of us. Please make sure that you stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Hydration helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels and helps muscles to work more efficiently. Remember, if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

Along with summer fun, we continue to emphasize water safety awareness. At our drowning prevention event at Cypress Hammock Park, we shared information with the community about water safety and demonstrated proper swim techniques. We remind the community to always designate a responsible water watcher. Remember to “Watch Your Kids, You Will be Glad You Did.” We want our residents and visitors to have fun and be safe in and out of the water.

The ability to save a life is an amazing gift. We invite the community to learn basic, but critical, life-support skills, automated external defibrillator (AED), CPR, and Stop the Bleed at an upcoming certification event. Trainings are conducted through our own Coral Springs Regional Institute of Public Safety. For a list of available courses, visit www.911cpr.org

Every July 4th thousands of people are injured using fireworks. Fireworks can cause serious burns, fires, property damage, and death. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an estimated 19,500 fires in the U.S. each year. In 2018, emergency rooms in the U.S. saw an estimated 9,100 people for fireworks-related injuries with 44% of those being burn related. Approximately 25% of the emergency room visits were from sparklers.

In September we recognize National Suicide Awareness Month. Suicide is a national issue that impacts so many lives. Unfortunately, too many of us know someone that has attempted or died by suicide. Suicide is ranked 10th for cause of death among all ages. It’s important for you to know that suicide is preventable. Some of the warning signs for someone at risk for suicide are as follows:

  • Feeling extreme depression, guilt, or shame.
  • Feeling hopeless.
  • Talking about, or preoccupation with, death or suicide.
  • Preparing for death, such as updating/preparing a will, giving away possessions, or taking steps to access lethal means (buying a firearm, acquiring quantities of pills/medication, researching ways to die).
  • Exhibiting a dramatic change in behavior, including withdrawal from friends or usual activities, increased alcohol/drug use, difficulties in sleeping or eating, decreased self-care.

2-1-1 Broward is a local resource that connects people with crisis, health, and disaster services through a free, 24/7 phone service and searchable online database. Simply dial 2-1-1 to seek help. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.

I am beyond proud of the men and woman that serve in the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department, for providing 24/7 emergency and non-emergency service to the communities of Coral Springs and Parkland which comprises more than 38 square miles and more than 165,000 residents. Learn more about our Fire Department by visiting www.CoralSprings.gov/fire. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at csfd@coralsprings.gov.

I am happy to announce our annual Pasta Dinner in support of Cancer Awareness returns October 8! This event is in partnership with the Coral Springs Professional Firefighters Benevolent Association. I encourage you to follow our social media platforms to stay informed and lean more (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok) about upcoming news and events related to the Fire Department.

Stay Safe, take care of yourself and others and seek help if you need it.