Mental Wellness in the Fire Service

This episode of CPF Fire Wire features a conversation between CPF President Darrell Roberts and CalChiefs President Bernard Molloy II about the importance of a joint labor-management approach to address this ongoing issue and the 2026 Suicide Prevention and Awareness Safety Stand Down from the floor to the chief level. Following the conversation between President Molloy and President Roberts, CPF EMS/Health and Safety Director Sean Burrows moderates a conversation with Dr. Steve Froehlich, Director of Behavioral Health for Los Angeles County Firefighters, Local 1014, and Captain Steve Blackburn, Peer Support Coordinator for the Los Angeles County Fire Department. They cover ways to support members in need of help, recognize red flags, and understand the importance of culturally competent care. For more information on the 2026 Suicide Prevention and Awareness Safety Stand Down and for resources for firefighter behavioral health, go to https://www.healingourown.org/

On this episode of Fire Wire, CPF President Brian K. Rice speaks to Misha McKinney,  VP of Clinical Programs, and Dr. Danielle Mellace, internal medicine physician, both with Kaiser Permanente, about the unique health challenges firefighters face, the importance of primary care and early detection, and how lifestyle medicine can reduce cancer risk. Active or retired firefighters who are members of Kaiser Permanente are encouraged to enroll in the California Firefighter Health Study before February 28, 2026, to help improve firefighter health and safety statewide. Sign up today at CPF.org/KaiserStudy. 

In the past 90 days, we have lost four of our members to active-duty suicide. Each of these losses is devastating to their family and to their fire service family. We must come together and take action to open up and support each other. The battle with PTSI, struggles with addiction, struggles with the complexity of life, and seeking help are why we are reaching out to you today with a special message from CPF President Brian K. Rice.  Please watch and share Brian's story. --- If you or a loved one is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 988.  The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. 9-8-8 is available via call or text, and online chat. For more resources created by firefighters, for firefighters, visit HealingOurOwn.org.

On this episode of CPF Fire Wire, President Brian K. Rice sits down with Oxnard Fire Department Chief Alexander Hamilton for a candid and powerful conversation about mental health in the fire service. Together, they break down the challenges firefighters face both on and off the line, and share practical insights on recognizing the early signs of crisis in yourself and your crew, taking meaningful steps to protect and strengthen your own mental health, and offering real support when a fellow firefighter needs it most. This episode opens the door to an honest dialogue, reminding us that caring for mental health is just as vital as the job itself. Explore firefighter-focused mental health resources at HealingOurOwn.org

On this episode of CPF Firewire, President Brian K. Rice sits down with CPF Insurance Trust Chair Scott Austin and Director Jason Cervantes. They discuss their work as Board Members of the Insurance Trust, helping ensure CPF members, both active and retired, have access to the best available insurance coverage. Hear what inspired their involvement, how they're supporting firefighters and their families through every stage of their careers, and what plans might be best for you.   Contact the CPF Insurance Trust at 888-550-5000, [email protected], or visit cpf-insurance.com

On this episode of CPF Firewire, we talk with Brian Abney of Orange County Professional Firefighters, Local 3631, a recently retired Fire Captain/Paramedic and trusted resource on workers’ comp, about what firefighters need to know and why understanding the system is critical to protecting yourself and your career. Tune in as he shares what led him to take on this role, the lessons he has learned along the way, and how he's helping his fellow firefighters navigate the complex compensation system.

On this episode of the Fire Wire, President Rice is joined by Jerry May, President of San Jose Fire Fighters, Local 230, to discuss the California Firefighter Cancer Research and Prevention Program, created by CPF-sponsored AB 700, and how this research will impact firefighters for generations to come. Together, they explore the value of early cancer screening and why building strong peer networks is essential for sharing ideas, resources, and opportunities that can help save lives.

On this episode of the Fire Wire, President Rice sits down with Firefighters First Credit Union Senior Vice President of Member Experience David Lillie and Vice President of Tax Services Mike Canny to discuss the credit union’s rich history and the extensive benefits they provide our members.

CPF President Brian Rice speaks with Dr. Katherine Warburton, the Medical Director of the California Department of State Hospitals, about the CARE Act and the role firefighters can play in connecting individuals with behavioral health services.   Links mentioned in this episode:  https://care-act.org/training-material/first-responders-the-care-act/ https://www.chhs.ca.gov/care-act/ https://care-act.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/CARE-Act-Brief-CARE-Process-Flow-08.30.2023-2.pdf https://care-act.org/training-material/petitioning-for-system-partners/ https://vimeo.com/1025105380

On this episode of CPF Fire Wire, CPF President Brian Rice sits with Monterey Firefighters Association, Local 3707 President, Ross Pounds and Chula Vista Firefighters, Local 2180 Political Action Committee Chair, Drew Smith alongside with CPF's very own Deputy Political Director Joe Armenta to discuss the importance of why we need to get involved in issue affecting the California fire service at a local level.