Firefighters routinely face some of the most traumatic moments a community can experience, and for many, the emotional toll can be heavier than the more than 50 pounds of gear they wear while doing the job.
September is Suicide Awareness Month, and Kern County Fire Department Capt. Matt Strange is speaking out about the mental health challenges and suicide risks firefighters face.
“Behind the badge, behind the helmet, there’s a human being there,” Strange said. “There’s a father; there’s a mother. There’s somebody’s baby boy or daughter.”…