Mental health program for wildland firefighters
This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Fit-to-Fight Psychosocial Education program, aimed at mitigating job stress and improving psychological health among wildland firefighters in Ontario's Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES). The program, initially piloted in 2016, was expanded in 2018 to include all full-time and seasonal AFFES staff. A baseline survey assessed psychosocial risk factors, job stress, and psychological capital, followed by the delivery of targeted educational materials addressing 13 key psychosocial risk factors. These materials were customized to address specific workplace challenges identified through surveys, with the goal of improving mental health and reducing stress. Pre- and post-season surveys and interviews with 21 participants provided valuable feedback for refining the program. Results highlighted the importance of addressing organizational culture and civility, with recommendations for ongoing support, leadership involvement, and resource accessibility. The study underscores the need for a comprehensive, resourced approach to improving psychosocial safety in wildland fire operations.
Principal Applicant: | Sandra Dorman (Laurentian University) |
Co-Applicants: | Caleb Leduc (Laurentian University); William Cole (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry); Michelle Young (Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry); Tammy Eger (Laurentian University); Alison Godwin (Laurentian University); Sabir Giga (Lancaster University) |
Funding Awarded: | $49,510* (Innovation at Work) |