Providence, RI — March 2nd — In order to assist firemen fighting a working building fire, Canteen 4 of the Special Signal Fire Association/Providence Canteen arrived at 370 Orms Street in Providence. When the canteen unit was called, Providence Fire Department personnel were already on the scene performing ventilation and suppression operations. In order to give water, hot beverages, and light refreshments to firemen who rotate through rehabilitation, Canteen 4 set up a rehabilitation facility close to the fireground.

Firefighter rehabilitation is a crucial component of prolonged incidents because working fires in Providence can include many engine and ladder companies in addition to command personnel. While workers worked on suppression and overhaul, the canteen unit stayed on the scene. Firefighters can safely resume operations while command personnel handles the situation by giving them hydration and a brief rest period.