Development and Testing of the Fire Service Health Drinking Toolkit
Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Principal Investigator - Raul Caetano, MD, PhD
RELEVANCE
The Secret List recently warned that FF alcohol misuse is a huge issue and one we continue to struggle with at every fire department. In our research with >3,500 FFs across the nation, over half reported heavy and binge drinking. In formative studies, FFs suggested that heavy drinking is used to cope with stress and trauma experienced on the job. This proposal is in response to High Priority Recommendation #18 of the 2nd Fire Service Research Agenda.
METHODS
A mixed-methods research approach will be used to develop and test the FSHDT. Participating organizations include the International Association of Fire Fighters, International Association of Fire Chief’s Safety, Health & Survival members, the National Volunteer Fire Council, and the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation. We are particularly excited that the NFFF’s First Responder Center for Excellence has agreed to house and disseminate the FSHDT.
ANTICIPATED OUTCOMES
This study will develop and test the FSHDT, which will be used in initiatives to reduce unhealthy levels of alcohol use among FFs.