FirefighterNation.com has learned that a Canton, Ohio fire captain has died while participating in a charity event.
Captain James M. Hall was playing with fellow firefighters in a charity basketball game against police officers on May 30, 2009 when he suddenly collapsed. CPR was immediately started, however he was unable to be revived. Captain Hall was a member of the Canton Fire Department for over twenty years.
In 2003 Hall was recognized by the department as Firefighter of the Year for actions he and another firefighter performed to rescue a young boy from a house fire.
An investigation into why Hall collapsed is pending. No official cause has been stated.
It's always sad to here of one of our brothers passing away.
May he rest in peace, we prey for him, his family, friends, and
fellow brothers of his department, that they get through this
tragedy, and remember not to let this set them back, but to
move them forward in his memory.
My Condolences to his family & department. But this brings up an interesting question, Which may require a new blog?? I'm a Fulltime Texas Firefighter and have been for a long time. Anyway my question is I have always heard that IAFF or state provide some type of insurance policy for my family (Heard it was $100k) in the event I die on duty or within 24 hrs after getting off duty, The only requirement I was told is you MUST have an autopsy within 24 hrs of death before your family is eligible. Does anyone know specifics on this??? And how would we go about getting it?? Because like this situation, my wife would be so distraut that she would not even think about the autopsy or filing the claim within the deadline, (Of course I have other policies-just in case) But this would be an extra for my wife & son. Also does this apply only to paid or is it volunteers as well?? what's the criteria, rules, $ Amount, etc.. If anyone has info about this please pass it along...
Once again I am deeply sorry for Capt. Hall's Family and his coworker's.