1. Introduction to the Wellness Fitness Initiative (WFI) By Lt. Denise Paganacci

2. Objectives History Goals WFI components

3. 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

4. WFI History IAFF and IAFC/ACE Equipment and Apparatus Maintenance; not personnel? Increased injuries and psychological stress Increased risk of Heart Disease

6. Facts 1 year average weight gain 44% increase in Coronary Artery Disease (NUMBER ONE!) Cops only at 25 %

7. 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

8. GOAL Improve quality of life Improve firefighter fitness Decrease injuries

9. Medical Evaluations Prior to engaging in fitness program, yearly medical evaluation. Identifies risk factors

10. Fitness Evaluations Provide baseline Cardiovascular Component Muscular Strength Component Muscular Endurance Component Flexibility Body Mass Index

11. 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

12. Behavioral Health Component Wellness program not complete without addressing behavioral health in fire service. EAP programs Critical Incident Stress Debriefing programs

13. Peer Fitness Trainers Firefighters assist to train fellow FF PFT assist members in exercise program design, program implementation, program administration Promote peer fitness services

14. Data collection Wellness Fitness Database is confidential To provide information that will assess the medical and fitness hx. Validates and determines impact of WFI

15. Summary History of the Wellness Fitness Initiative Need for the WFI Components of the WFI