The more first responders talk, the clearer the need for peer support becomes. Statistics show a civilian may see one or two traumatic events in a lifetime. A patroller, EMT, firefighter, or deputy may see hundreds.
Asking “are you OK?” right after an incident will usually get you “I’m OK.” Follow up the next day, the next week, the next month. Ask how they are feeling. You will know if you get them talking.
Patroller stories
- Jeff Azure’s story
- After the Crash, They Said I Was Fine. I Wasn’t — Erin Tierney
- If You Try to be an Island, That is What You Will Become — Bryant Hall
- Stress Injury and Ski Patrol — Eryka Thorley & Laura McGladrey
Resources