The Calgary Fire Fighters Association is the second-largest IAFF affiliate in Canada and represents fire fighters, apparatus technicians and maintenance staff.

Approach

The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) Wellness and Fitness program is not only changing behavior patterns in a few individuals -- it is changing the culture of the entire department. This change is a result of the continuous commitment to conduct comprehensive medical evaluations, along with fitness assessments and healthy lifestyle counseling for all its personnel. 

Because fire fighters face a high risk for a coronary episode, the CFD initiated an awareness and prevention program. The Wellness and Fitness division evaluated 526 department personnel using a cardiovascular screening tool from the American College of Sports Medicine. It is the departments belief that a comprehensive screening program, coupled with early intervention techniques, will help prevent the onset of this disease.

As part of the department's efforts to stay current with emerging science, it has developed partnerships with various universities to conduct research projects that will continue to advance health initiatives in the fire service.

Physical fitness is critical to maintaining the wellness of the CFD's uniformed personnel. The department's commitment to providing the appropriate equipment, space, accommodation of on-duty workout time and access to Peer Fitness Trainers has been instrumental in developing the department's wellness philosophy. 

Medical
 

Fitness

PFT Description
Station Equipment List

Injury-Rehab

Behavioral Health

Cost Justification

Data Collection

Health Questionnaire
Jackson Strength Norms
Vertical Jump Averages

Implementation

There are currently no links or files available for dissemination. For more information, see the contact listed above.  

Miscellaneous

Health & Wellness Report