Most people think of firefighting as a purely physical job, and it’s not hard to see why. Firefighters need to have the strength and stamina to carry heavy equipment, withstand brutal conditions and endure many hours in the field. However, the mental side of the job is just as important. The men and women of your local fire department have to bring a lot of specialized knowledge with them when they arrive on the scene of a call. They must be ready to recall their training for each situation…

Few professions command as much respect as first responders. First responders rush to help when others would flee; they put themselves in harm’s way to save lives; and they work tirelessly to respond to emergencies and prevent them from getting worse. Yet, the very nature of their work puts first responders at higher risk of physical and emotional health issues. Here is a closer look at some of the dangers these workers face, as well as how to minimize the…