Introduction to the Wellness Fitness Initiative (WFI)

By Lt. Denise Paganacci

Objectives

• History

• Goals

• WFI components

NFPA 1583• The purpose of this standard is to

provide the minimum requirement for a health related fitness program for the fire department members who are involved in rescue, fire suppression, EMS, hazardous materials operations, special operations, and related activities

WFI History

• IAFF and IAFC/ACE

• Equipment and Apparatus Maintenance; not personnel?

• Increased injuries and psychological stress

• Increased risk of Heart Disease

Facts

• 1 year average weight gain

• 44% increase in Coronary Artery Disease (NUMBER ONE!)

• Cops only at 25 %

WFI History

• Austin, Texas FD• Calgary, Alberta FD• Charlotte, North Carolina FD• Fairfax County, Virginia FD• Indianapolis, Indiana FD• Los Angeles County, FD• Miami Dade, Florida FD• City of New York, NY FD• Phoenix, Arizona FD• Seattle, Washington FD

GOAL

• Improve quality of life

• Improve firefighter fitness

• Decrease injuries

Medical Evaluations

• Prior to engaging in fitness program, yearly medical evaluation.

• Identifies risk factors

Fitness Evaluations

• Provide baseline• Cardiovascular Component• Muscular Strength Component• Muscular Endurance Component• Flexibility• Body Mass Index

Injury/Fitness Rehab

According to the 1999 Death and Injury Survey

• Low back injuries and sprains and strains account 52% of all injuries

• 1 in 3 FF injured annually

Behavioral Health Component

• Wellness program not complete without addressing behavioral health in fire service.

• EAP programs

• Critical Incident Stress Debriefing programs

Peer Fitness Trainers

• Firefighters assist to train fellow FF• PFT assist members in exercise

program design, program implementation, program administration

• Promote peer fitness services

Data collection

• Wellness Fitness Database is confidential

• To provide information that will assess the medical and fitness hx.

• Validates and determines impact of WFI

Summary

• History of the Wellness Fitness Initiative

• Need for the WFI

• Components of the WFI