Safety Harbor, FL (December 6, 2024) – Two firefighters were injured after a car crashed into a Pinellas County fire station on Friday morning. The crash occurred around 9:00 AM at the fire station located on the 3000 block of McMullen Booth Rd in Safety Harbor. According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the vehicle struck the two firefighters while they were performing their daily duties in front of the station.
The injured firefighters have been identified as Ryan Craig, 36, and Joseph Hans, 50. Hans sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to the hospital in stable condition. Craig, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, is receiving treatment for his injuries. Fortunately, the fire station’s crew was able to respond quickly to the incident.
The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by local authorities. Our thoughts are with the injured firefighters, and we wish them both a swift and full recovery.
Emergency Worker Safety in Florida
Accidents involving emergency responders are a tragic reminder of the risks that first responders face on a daily basis. Firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers are often exposed to danger, not only when responding to emergencies but also when performing routine tasks in public spaces. In this case, two firefighters were injured while performing everyday duties outside their station—a sobering reminder of the importance of awareness and safety.
Florida has seen a number of incidents where vehicles crash into fire stations, emergency vehicles, or first responders while they are performing their duties. These accidents often occur when drivers are distracted, speeding, or not paying attention to the road, especially in areas near high-traffic emergency response locations.
Pinellas County and other parts of Florida have taken measures to improve the safety of first responders, including awareness campaigns for drivers to slow down when approaching emergency scenes. However, this incident highlights the ongoing need for drivers to stay vigilant and be mindful of emergency workers at all times.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this incident or similar accidents, Local Accident Reports is here to provide timely updates and resources. We stand with the injured firefighters and urge all drivers to practice caution, particularly around emergency vehicles and responders.