Resources
Resources for Wildland Firefighter Health and Wellbeing
We are providing a resource guide for wildland fire personnel and researchers to find more information about health resources that are available for wildland fire personnel in the United States.
We are not health providers, and this is not an exhaustive list of resources. However, it compiles information about several lines of support that are available.
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If you or someone else are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
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If you are having suicidal thoughts, call 988 for the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This hotline provides confidential, 24/7 crisis support and resources. Even if you are not in crisis, you can receive resources and support via the Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
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RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE
Occupational Health Resources
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NWCG publishes daily topics to help firefighters navigate hazardous fireline situations, some of which specifically relate to health
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Web-based health curriculum for wildland and WUI firefighters, created by Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU)
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A registry to study cancer among firefighters; run by NIOSH, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
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Federal firefighters who meet the requirements and are diagnosed with certain cancers and heart and lung conditions are eligible for presumptive coverage.
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For a full list of presumptive illnesses, visit FECA Bulletin No. 23-05.
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To learn more about federal worker's compensation, visit
www.grassrootswildlandfirefighters.com/health-safety-resources#injuries
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Web-based health curriculum for wildland and WUI firefighters, created by Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU)
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Web-based health curriculum for wildland and WUI firefighters, created by Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU)
Mental Health Resources
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The Wildland Fire Therapy Service provides up to 16 free therapy sessions annually to federal wildland firefighters through a network of licensed therapists with experience in serving emergency management professionals.
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Each agency (USDA Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) has its own point of contact.
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Behavioral health officers from the U.S. Public Health Service are available to provide mental health training to wildland fire crews. They can be reached at: bho@ios.doi.gov
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Non-profits Hotshot Wellness and FUSEE have compiled a list of mental health providers who serve wildland firefighters through private practice or nonprofit counseling services.
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The spreadsheet was created in partnership with Close the Gap Wellness.
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The IAFF Center of Excellence provides behavioral health and recovery services for members
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The IAFF’s information about navigating a crisis is found here: https://www.iaff.org/helping-a-member-in-need/
Additional Resources
Nonprofits Serving Wildland Firefighters
Wildfire Advisory Teams Liasing with Researchers
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A NWCG advisory body called the Medical and Public Health Advisory Team (MPHAT) liaises with researchers who are conducting work in the U.S. with federal wildland firefighters.
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Learn more about MPHAT and the process for doing research with U.S. federal wildland firefighters here: www.nwcg.gov/partners/fire-management-board/mphat/firefighter-research