Extra Alarm: Fleeing to the firehouse – when work becomes an escape

This week’s Extra Alarm insights come to us from Dr. Rachelle Zemlok, a clinical psychologist focused on first responders families. Dr. Zemlok examines the tendency of some firefighters to spend extra hours at work to escape personal problems, leading to emotional distance and strained relationships at home. The structured environment of firefighting contrasts with the complexity of home life, causing some to avoid addressing domestic issues. Dr. Zemlok suggests a four-step approach to tackle these challenges, and encouraged firefighters to confront emotional challenges head-on, seek professional help if needed, and strive for a healthy work-life balance.