The U.S. Fire Administration has announced the official on-duty death of Captain Neal W. Smith, 46, of the Atascocita Volunteer Fire Department on September 17, 2012.
On Saturday, September 15, during a smoke diver class designed to train firefighters advanced survival skills in full gear, Captain Neal Smith passed out from a heat-related illness. He was transported to a hospital during which CPR was administered. Captain Smith remained in critical condition until Monday, September 17, when he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 6:30 p.m. Doctors reportedly determined that Captain Smith's body temperature was more than 106 degrees.
Our condolences to the Smith Family, Friends, the Atascocita Volunteer Fire Department, and to all affected by Fire Police Captain Neal W. Smith's passing.
To date, 58 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2012. Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) Fatality Notices page.
(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)
