Recognizing and Combating Firefighter Stress

Abstract

Over the past few years there has been a positive trends in firefighter training: firefighter awareness; and instructors' writing, teaching and preaching toward firefighter fitness. It is a topic that had been taboo for many years in the fire service. Many firefighters across the country are focusing on their level of fitness , and many departments have put mechanisms and programs in place that encourage weight loss and increased physical fitness. However, although the fitness drum is being beaten, there is still an area of firefighter wellness that is not being discussed. Firefighter stress and post traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) are real threats to the American fire service.