NFPA 1500: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Fire Industry

The all-new course NFPA 1500: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Fire Industry supports first responders in addressing mental health issues that are often overlooked.

When alerted of an emergency, fire and EMS professionals do not hesitate to help those in danger and save lives. However, personnel may not always realize how these events affect their mental wellbeing in the long run.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often a widely ignored issue in the fire industry, even though it impacts first responders six times more than civilians. As a way of promoting the importance of discussing this issue, TargetSolutions is releasing the course NFPA 1500: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Fire Industry. 

Course Description

In order to help first responders understand mental health issues within themselves and in their department, NFPA 1500: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Fire Industry provides video lessons to engage learners. This course presents a video narrative of a firefighter who experiences PTSD after losing a young patient. Each lesson addresses different symptoms and warning signs of PTSD and explains how to get help.

To guide individuals through the course, an on-screen instructor emphasizes key scientific studies and statistics that explain the extent of PTSD in the fire service. Additionally, mid-lesson quizzes keep learners engaged in the material and ensure comprehension of PTSD.

Course Objectives

This course has 12 learning modules that cover all aspects of PTSD. Upon completing this course, personnel will have a better understanding of PTSD, including the best way to identify and deal with symptoms and suicidal thoughts within themselves and others who may be experiencing PTSD.

The lessons presented include the following:

• The Extent of the Problem
• The Origin of PTSD
• PTSD Contributing Factors
• Behavioral Health
• Understanding Mental Health Disorders
• Mental Health Warning Signs
• Suicide Statistics
• Suicide Warnings
• The Role of the Company and Chief Officers
• Getting Help
• 21st Century Task Readiness
• Conclusion
• References and Resources