The physical dangers to firefighters are well known. Less well known are the emotional challenges that result from being a firefighter or paramedic. The First Responder Suicide Prevention Act (5 ILCS 840) attempts to address these challenges. The new Act amends the Fire Protection Training Act to require training on issues related to stress, trauma, and post-traumatic experience by firefighters. It encourages referrals to employee assistance programs, within the fire department or outside of it, and creates requirements to insure that any information shared on these issues remains confidential.

Published by John T. Brady

My first involement with the fire service came over thirty years ago, when I was asked to serve as a trustee for the fire protection district serving the community where I live. Since then, my practice has grown to representing numerous fire departments and ambulance services throughout central Illinois. I have lectured and written extensively on legal issues involving the fire service, and taught classes on fire science law at our local community college. Prepared by John T. Brady Law Office of John T. Brady Chase Bank Building, Suite 1928 411 Hamilton Boulevard Peoria, Illinois 61602