More firefighters will learn how to develop and improve their mental-health resiliency through enhanced access to a psychological wellness training program.

The BC Occupational Awareness Training online program, administered by the BC Municipal Safety Association and First Responder Health, will be offered to BC Wildfire Service staff and include more training about how to manage daily stress and anxiety.

“Firefighters are there for us in the most trying times of our lives and it can take a toll on their own mental health,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Because they are so used to helping others through high-stress situations, it can be challenging for some first responders to take the time to focus on their own mental health. By supporting this program, we are ensuring more first responders learn how to take care of their own mental health and build resiliency that will help them throughout their careers and lives.”

Launched in spring 2023, the online program is available to all municipal firefighters throughout the province and all BC Wildfire Services staff as of March 1, 2024. Phase 2 of the program, which includes 12 new training modules, will launch this summer.

“The BC Municipal Safety Association and its partners are looking forward to providing additional upstream mental-health training,” said Mike Roberts, chief executive officer, BC Municipal Safety Association. “Through proactive mental-health care, we can help prevent issues before they become more serious, fostering a healthier and more productive life and work environment for all B.C. firefighters.”

To date, more than 6,660 municipal firefighters have enrolled in the program.

The first year of the program focuses on helping firefighters understand mental health, learn how to manage stress and develop self-care strategies. It allows workers to watch a short video of 10-15 minutes from the series, followed by a guided crew discussion that is supported by a printable workbook. The videos and workbooks remain available online so firefighters who miss a session or join the department later can access these resources.

“The safety and well-being of our firefighters are of the utmost importance and we are committed to taking proactive measures to ensure their protection,” said Todd Schierling, president, BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA). “With the support of the ministry and the collaborative effort of other partners, we are enhancing training resources to safeguard firefighters from mental-health illnesses and injuries.”

The Province is investing more than $1 billion in new funding to ensure people living with mental-health or addiction challenges can find, access and stay connected to care, including $586 million for treatment and recovery services specifically.