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Jeff Griffin is our hero for sharing so much for the benefit of those who may be going through what he has gone through. He joined the Phoenix Fire Department in 1981. In 1982, while still a rookie, Griffin was named Firefighter of the Year for pulling a fellow firefighter to safety. He remained with the PFD for 31 years, serving as a firefighter, engineer and captain. In July 1989, Griffin suffered extensive burn injuries when he fell into a fully involved attic fire. A neighbor captured the close call on video, which has been widely shared for decades. His use of prescribed painkillers during his physical recovery triggered a downward spiral of addiction, life challenges, bad choices and eventual incarceration. Since his release in 2018, Griffin has dedicated his life to helping firefighters struggling with addiction. He volunteers with Phoenix Fire Fighters Local 493, speaks at firefighter conferences and has published articles that describe the lessons he has learned the hard way. Griffin currently works in customer service for Auto Zone and enjoys spending time with his wife, two children and two grandchildren (plus one on the way!). A lifetime football player and coach, Griffin helps coach his grandson’s high school football team.


Jeff Griffin can be reached at 623-694-5497 or email him at [email protected]


Video of the fall through the roof    https://youtu.be/UJS2xnwhe_M

This episode is co-hosted by Nick Brunacini, the owner and ringleader of B Shifter & Blue Card.

Resources:

Safe Call Now – 1-206-459-3020 A 24/7 help line staffed by first responders for first responders and their family members. They can assist with treatment options for responders who are suffering from mental health, substance abuse and other personal issues.

IAFF Members Recovery Center - 1-844-995-0772 For IAFF members and their families seeking help for PTSD, substance abuse and other behavioral issues.

Fire/EMS Helpline – 1-888-731-3473 Also known as Share The Load. A program run by the National Volunteer Fire Council. They have a help line, text based help service, and have also collected a list of many good resources for people looking for help and support.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255 The national (USA) suicide hotline. Not first responder specific, but they can and will talk to anyone who needs help. We’ve been told by one of their founders they have a large number of first responders and veterans who volunteer.

Copline (Law Enforcement Only) – 1-800-267-5463 A confidential helpline for members of US law enforcement. Their website also has additional information on help and resources.

Frontline Helpline – 1-866-676-7500 Run by Frontline Responder Services. Offer 24/7 coverage with first responder call-takers.

This episode was produced & edited by John Vance, you can reach him at [email protected]


Production assistance from Katie Brunacini and Michelle Garrido Sutton