NJ NFFF Efforts & the Behavioral Health initiative

While many podcasts and all-over social media, we hear and see a great deal of discussion on tactics, strategies, equipment and more. And it makes sense, as those topics are the “sexy” ones regarding firefighting. However, there’s a great deal more that needs to be discussed just as openly as the subjects mentioned above, but are all too often left alone because, well, they’re just too personal.

On “5-Alarm Task Force,” we embrace ALL the issues that we face as first responders, even the “ugly” ones, such as dealing with a Line of Duty Death and behavioral health issues. For this episode, I am proud to welcome back my friend, David Wiklanski. David, based in New Jersey, is one of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s state advocates.

As David mentions, while we do very well with the funeral of a fallen comrade, we need to learn how to actually deal with this tragic issue, through education and preparation. And not only must we learn how to be prepared, we must also assure that our families are prepared, as well. No, it is not an easy topic to think about or bring up, but it is necessary.

David also shares some of the positive news regarding the behavioral health initiative, as well as some outrageous comments by a chief, when a member advises him that he is dealing with behavioral issues and is seeking help. Sadly, this is not as uncommon as we may think. There are those chief officers who either just do not know how to deal with these issues properly or sadly, just do not care!

Tune in on our website, www.dalmatianproductions.tv or your favorite podcast platform!

Stay Safe & Stay Well!