Fire Fighting in Canada: Road to Recovery

Firefighters don’t like to show their weaknesses or vulnerabilities. They often keep their problems to themselves instead of reaching out for help. That’s what happened to Chris Howe, an acting captain with the Niagara Falls Fire Department. He suffered from mental health issues and became an alcoholic and drug addict and was suicidal. One day, though, he reached out and found help.Chris talks to Fire Fighting in Canada editor Grant Cameron about his struggles and eventual recovery from the depths of despair. He provides a personal, no-holds-barred account of his battles with mental health, alcoholism, addiction and his journey to recovery. That recovery began about eight years ago and Chris now shares his story in hopes it will help others in similar predicaments.