Firefighting is one of the most physically and emotionally challenging professions, with responders placing themselves at risk every time they answer a call. The Firefighter Cancer Support Network reports that just the sound of the emergency tones causes a firefighter’s heart rate to increase by 47 beats per minute, highlighting the immediate stress their bodies endure even before reaching the scene.

Concerns like high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health challenges have long been linked to the profession. Sullivan 180’s Healthiest Fire Department Challenge is designed to address these issues, encouraging fire departments to prioritize wellness and resilience both on and off the job.

Sullivan 180 Outreach Program Manager Lindsay Wheat, and Jill Holand, a Healthiest Fire Department Challenge Captain, firefighter with the Kauneonga Lake Fire Department, appeared on Radio Chatskill to discuss the program.