Problem is.. the firefighters aren't covered by their employers if they happen to break their back lifting a heavy patient which is testamount to the lack of support these guys get. Like in the police, the HSE has too much time in the fire service. I think medical stuff should be kept to the experts as much as possible and leave the water fairies to do what they do best. Have you been in a cab of a fire engine? With all the new gear, CBRN stuff, some of them are having to carry a stretcher across their laps in the cab to any 999 call whilst trying to get ready inside the said sardine tin.