.When we think of the dangers firefighters face, flames and smoke often come to mind. However, data from 2019 reveals a different, more insidious threat: stress and overexertion. According to the report “Firefighter Fatalities in the United States in 2019” by the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, the leading cause of fatal injury among firefighters wasn't burns or smoke inhalation, but stress or overexertion.
In 2019, 36 firefighters lost their lives due to stress or overexertion. This category encompasses heart attacks, cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs, or strokes), and other events such as extreme climatic thermal exposure. Remarkably, this number includes 32 heart attacks, three strokes, and one death from an aortic aneurysm. An additional two died from exposure to environmental factors. In comparison, five firefighters died from getting caught or trapped in a fire, and 11 were involved in vehicle crashes or struck by a vehicle.
These figures underscore a crucial aspect of firefighting that often goes unnoticed: the immense physical and mental strain of the job.
These statistics highlight the critical role of EMTs and emergency incident rehabilitation providers. Far more firefighters succumb to internal stressors like heart attacks than external threats like flames. This fact emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing the health of firefighters not just at the scene of a fire, but before and after incidents as well. EMTs and rehab providers can help mitigate these risks through vigilant health monitoring, stress management, and ensuring that firefighters get the necessary rest and recuperation after intense exertion.
Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for firefighters should include regular medical check-ups, stress management techniques, and training in recognizing the signs of overexertion and stress. These programs are not just about physical fitness; they also need to address the mental and emotional well-being of firefighters, providing them with the tools and support to manage the psychological demands of their work.
The data makes it clear: the biggest threat to firefighters isn't always the fire they're fighting. To save lives, the focus must shift to combating the hidden dangers of heat, stress, and overexertion. By prioritizing comprehensive health and rehabilitation programs, the firefighting community can protect those who protect us, ensuring they remain healthy and ready to face the challenges of their crucial profession.
That's where WearARMR comes in! Our definitive emergency incident rehabilitation system ensures your agency can prevent the most preventable firefighter deaths: those from stress, overexertion, and heat.