Firefighters' Rates Of PTSD Similar To Combat Veterans
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- Firefighters' rates of PTSD are not unlike those of combat veterans, according to new research.
The International Association of Firefighters has compiled research on suicide, substance abuse, and other issues associated with post-traumatic stress, and determined that their rates were similar to combat veterans. The union is now adding post-traumatic stress to the list of occupational hazards.
Oakland Firefighter's Union President Dan Robertson says firefighters need more counseling sessions in their health plans, and told KCBS that a cultural change in his department will make it more likely his firefighters will take advantage of those sessions.
"In the last four or five years, we've done a good job sitting around the kitchen table, and acknowledging that these issues take place, and that they have a cumulative effect, and we can take steps to address those issues. And, it's not a sign of weakness to admit that you need to do that," Robertson said.
The IIAF also voted at a conference in San Francisco to fund more research into cancer risks for firefighters.
Since a federal study of cancer rates among firefighters—including those in San Francisco—came out in 2013, the San Francisco Fire Department has changed the way it operates.
"Traditionally, the thought was that we were inhaling these chemicals, but we're finding out the chemicals are being absorbed through our skin, through our sweat glands. So, we're trying to find ways to decontaminate ourselves after a fire,"
