PA fire commissioner advocates suicide prevention efforts for first responders
Written by Juliana on September 14, 2020
PA fire commissioner advocates suicide prevention efforts for first responders
By Gabi Falk, WLVR Lehigh University Intern
September 14, 2020
One of Pennsylvania’s top emergency officials says suicides among first responders are increasing.
Bruce Trego is the Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner. Speaking on 9/11, he called the rising national rate, especially in fire personnel, alarming.
“As of the end of August there were already 60 confirmed suicides of first responders.”
Trego says he’s working with the Wolf administration to help prevent suicides. The state has launched a four year strategy to fight stigmas associated with mental health to increase training and education on suicide. With many free courses online for first responders to help them cope with job stress.
“First responders remain integral in providing assistance to those going through the worst experience they have ever had to deal with,” said Trego.
Trego says the global pandemic has increased the need for more attention and resources to help protect the mental health of first responders.
More information about the TRAIN PA program can be found online at train.org.
This story is part of a collaboration between WLVR News and Lehigh University’s Department of Journalism & Communication. View all student stories.
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