Wellness and Fitness Initiative – what is it?
The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF),
in cooperation with the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), has committed to an unprecedented
endeavor. The Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness/Fitness Initiative is
an effort to build a stronger fire service by strengthening our foundation - the
firefighter.
In conjunction with the following 10 Fire Departments (see below) an overall wellness/fitness system is being created that
comprises the physical, mental, and emotional fitness components to improve the quality of life for all firefighters. The
mission is to keep the Firefighter fit, healthy, and capable to do their job throughout his/her 25-30 + year career and
beyond. An effective program should realize significant cost savings in lost work time, workers compensation and disability.
- Austin, TX / IAFF Local 975
- Calgary, ALB / IAFF Local 255
- Charlotte, NC / IAFF Local 660
- Fairfax Co., VA / IAFF Local 2068
- Indianapolis, IN / IAFF Local 416
- Los Angeles Co., CA / IAFF Local 1014
- Metro Dade Co., FL / IAFF Local 1403
- New York City, NY / IAFF Local 94/854
- Phoenix, AZ / IAFF Local 493
- Seattle, WA / IAFF Local 27
The Wellness Fitness Initiative (WFI) takes the approach of being holistic and non-punitive. It is designed to develop a
physically fit firefighter and assure the fire department and community that it’s firefighters are both medically and
physically fit for duty. The WFI also supports the idea that wellness is a personal commitment that all uniformed personnel
must make to stay safe and survive in this very demanding profession.
Each year one in three firefighters are injured while performing emergency services and firefighting
operations. More alarming is that 53% of firefighter deaths are associated with stress/overexertion causing heart attacks
and other acute cardiovascular events. On average 100 plus firefighters die in the line of duty each year.
Since 1997, the collaborative efforts of many has now made available the 3rd edition of The Fire Service Joint Labor Management
Wellness-Fitness Initiative. This document provides a programmatic template that allows Fire Chiefs and departments to implement
a wellness-fitness program and is designed in a step-by-step format. Download a copy at www.iafc.org/associations/4685/files/healthWell_WFI3rdedition.pdf
Wellness Benefits:
| Greater strength & stamina |
Reduction of anxiety, stress, tension and depression |
| Weight reduction and/or control |
Increased energy, general vitality, and mental sharpness |
| Lower cholesterol |
Enhanced self-esteem & self-image |
| Decreased risk of death/injury/disability |
More restful & refreshing sleep |
| Heightened job performance & enjoyment from work |
Enhanced capacity to recover from strenuous and exhaustive work |
| Improved performance in physical activities |
Increased tolerance for heat stress & more effective body cooling |
| Better posture and joint functioning |
Improved mobility, balance & coordination |
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