You CAN Do It

An 8 Minute Quick Attack That CAN Save a Life!

During a structure fires or incidents often the Incident Commander will often ask for a CAN Report: A field report from personnel operating on the fire ground to Command that includes three elements: C – Conditions A – Actions N – Needs (Current fire conditions) (A description of the actions that they are taking) (A request for any resource needs). It works well during incidents

Don’t Trash This Can – We All Need It!

Did you know that 8 minutes CAN save a person’s life. Research consistently shows that an 8-minute talk with a caring friend can significantly reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood.

It’s best to be there, if possible, as they have to hear your voice, see your eyes, feel your heart.

Here’s “how to be” – for just 8 minutes:

1. Establish a Code. Create a signal phrase “Got 8 minutes?” Use it with close friends whenever needed ↳ Respond with your voice (not text) when you hear it.
2. Create Safety First. Put your phone away completely. Face them fully, maintain gentle eye contact. Match their energy level.
3. Listen Without Fixing. Use gentle “mmhm” sounds to encourage. Be OK with silences. Hold them. Ask “what’s on your heart?”
4. Validate Their Feelings. Say “that sounds really difficult” or “wow that sucks.” Thank them for trusting you.
5. Stay Connected. Send a simple “thinking of you” text. Announce (don’t offer) specific help (“I’ll bring dinner”)  Check in again the next day.
6. Know Your Limits. Suggest professional help when needed. Take care of your own emotional health If you’re not up for helping, you’re not helping.
7. Schedule Regular Check-ins. Set up permanent 8-minute calls. Keep the commitment consistent. Make it mutual – tell them about you. This will help them feel able and helpful.
8. Create a Safe Space. Invite them to low-pressure activities. Respect their decision to join or not Keep the invitation open.

How would you feel knowing you can be there and making a difference for your friends, counterparts and loved ones this way?

You CAN spare 8 minutes of your time!

Source: Lior Ziv

Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He is Director at Large with the California State Firefighters Association, Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com