MassLive.com
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — The Springfield Fire Department recently instituted suicide-prevention workshops for all of its uniformed personnel, which officials said may be the first of its kind for any fire department in the state.
Fire Commissioner Joseph Conant said the training, which he made mandatory for all uniformed personnel, was not the result of any specific incident within the department involving a suicide or attempted suicide. Instead, he said, it is a reflection of a changing attitude within the department.
The department has always been aware of the physical health and well-being of its firefighters, he said. The training demonstrates the department is concerned with their emotion and mental health as well, he said.
Full story: Springfield Fire Department requires training for firefighters to recognize signs and symptoms of suicide