Optimizing health and wellness in the firehouse
As a firefighter, you can go from simply performing a daily task, such as completing a report, to immediately getting ready for action when a call comes in. During this time, your body goes from a relaxed state of mind to having an increased heart rate, possibly a sense of panic and spikes in your blood pressure.
When occurring over and over again, all of these things are unhealthy for your overall health. Luckily, to help combat this, here are some ways to help you maintain your overall health and wellness under these extraordinary conditions:
Keep your stress down. A 140-decibel alarm going off any time of the day or night will not help reduce your stress level. Firehouses should consider alternative sirens, primarily ones that can reduce the “startle response” effect. These alarms can gradually get louder over time, which can help ease you into getting ready in a less stressful way. Not only that, but your ears will thank you as well!
Keep yourself fit. Being physically fit is a great way to keep your overall health up. Especially being a firefighter, you have to be able to carry out your search and rescue responsibilities at a moment’s notice, so ensuring that a proper workout regimen is in place goes a long way in this regard. If your station does not already have a facility, you can always improvise job-specific workouts. These types of exercises could include using the fire trucks for step-ups, using a fire hose for dragging and stretching, and creating an open space for pushups and squats.
Keep track of your mental health. Taking care of your mind is just as, if not more important, than maintaining your physical health. Fire chiefs should consider offering members various mental health programs – if they aren’t in place.
Eat healthy. It might be tempting to order some takeout or stuff your face with a pizza, especially during days or weeks with little to no emergency calls. Instead, pack well-balanced meals and snacks to help keep you full and free from excess calories and heavy meals that can leave you feeling sluggish. Like any diet change, be sure to ease yourself into it, as dramatic changes can lead to some possible discomfort.
Remember to enjoy yourself. While you must be serious and get to business immediately, everyone can benefit from having a little fun. People happy with their work lives are often just as happy at home. Try setting up recreational games, sending out daily ‘funny emails’ to your firehouse or anything else you can think of that can put some smiles on your faces.
Incorporating these tips into your firehouse’s daily routines can help keep you and your team physically and mentally ready and able to take on all of the challenges you may face.
Source: Fire Apparatus Magazine