Firefighting has been rated as the most stressful job of 2015, according to a survey carried out by CareerCast, a premier careers-based website. With a combination of extreme physical demands and psychological pressure, this is undoubtedly a stressful career. However, with the right methods, stress can be relieved and improve your clients’ efficiency, productivity, volunteer safety, and ultimately their bottom line. In addition, ensure their operations are adequately protected with a customizable Volunteer Firefighter Insurance Package to combat these unique risks.

Recognizing and accepting stress is #1.

The American Psychiatric Association asserts that PTSD affects as much as 73 percent of firefighters and only 3.6 percent of the civilian population. While many avoid discussing it or acknowledging how stress plays a role in their lives, a traumatic incident is often the catalyst for such emotions. Therefore, counting on crew members as an outlet and keeping an eye out for changes in attitude and behavior are critical for volunteer firefighters.

Firefighter Nation states that since stress experienced by firefighters is cumulative, with repeated episodes of dangerous and disturbing situations intensifying the emotional turmoil, denying its existence only intensifies it; therefore, on recognizing and admitting signs of stress, the next step is to tackle it with stress management techniques.

Stress management.

Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) teams are a great resource for firefighters who have undergone traumatic events and need a coping mechanism. Their programs are designed to treat the firefighters efficiently with a 7 step process, here are the basics:

·        First step: Introduction to the team and engaging the firefighters about recent events that might have sparked stress.

·        Next step: Reveal their reaction to the event and discuss the symptoms that have been faced by the firefighters.

·        Last step: Explanation of symptoms, encourages firefighters to ask question and seek out advice.

In addition, there are some other recommended stress relievers including exercise, hobbies, spending time with family and friends, and even deep breathing. These are known to destress the mind and to help firefighters focus on more positive aspects of their lives and jobs.

At Provident Fire Plus, we are dedicated to protecting the fire department sector. From property protection to securing the equipment in the apparatus, our comprehensive policies are geared to protect your clients’ specific exposures. For more information about our products and services, contact us today at (855) 201-8880.