The threats facing the fire service today are almost unrecognizable compared to even a decade ago. Each day our call volume is increasing, and our exposure to hazardous toxins is higher than ever. Firefighters operate on a similar level physically as professional athletes, willing to jump into harm’s way to protect the neighbors and communities we love.
The demands of the job on the human body and mind are almost indescribable. The average person will witness a small handful of traumatic events in their lifetime. For firefighters, going to work can mean witnessing multiple traumatic events by lunchtime.
Santa Barbara County is no stranger to wildfire threats. No one knows the devastating impacts of these fires more than our community members who have suffered property losses or personal trauma, or both, and the firefighters who have fought on the front lines to keep our community safe…