Fire Fighting in Canada: Stopping the stigma

Firefighters are routinely exposed to grisly sights and traumatic events. It’s all part of the job. But over time these experiences can take a significant toll on firefighters. Many firefighters suffer in silence because of the stoic culture that discourages them from seeking help with their own problems.

The B.C. First Responders Mental Health committee is taking aim at the problem and has a campaign underway called “Share It. Don’t Wear it.” Purpose of the campaign is to raise awareness of mental health issues and encourage firefighters and other first responders to seek help.

Fire Fighting in Canada editor Grant Cameron spoke with Steve Farina, a captain in the fire suppression division at Coquitlam Fire Rescue about the campaign. Steve is a member of the committee.

For more information on the campaign, go to bcfirstrespondersmentalhealth.com.