Health & Wellness

The fire service is inherently stressful, physically and mentally. The Kentucky Fire Commission is dedicated to helping firefighters become more aware of their physical and mental health and wellness. Firefighters are encouraged to make their health and wellness a priority. Several initiatives are offered through the Fire Commission to promote well-being of firefighters and their ability to perform duties associated with firefighting:

CPAT Testing

The Kentucky Fire Commission holds a license to administer Candidate Physical Ability Testing (CPAT). This program is set up to develop a fair and valid evaluation tool in the selection of firefighters to ensure that all firefighter candidates possess the physical ability to complete critical tasks effectively and safely. CPAT is a sequence of events requiring a candidate to progress along a predetermined path through 8 events in a continuous manner. Effective January 1, 2013, proof of successful completion of a CPAT test is required for all career firefighter candidates hired in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Health & Wellness Program Grants

The Kentucky Fire Commission's Health & Wellness Program also funds the purchase of fitness equipment and gear extractors for qualifying fire departments of the Commonwealth. Departments wishing to be considered for this program should contact Interim Executive Director Bruce Roberts at bruce.roberts@kctcs.edu or (859) 256-3481.

Line-of-Duty Stress Injury Treatment Reimbursement

The Kentucky Fire Commission offers a reimbursement program for firefighters diagnosed with a Line-of Duty-Stress Injury and undergoing treatment. This confidential program establishes reimbursement to current volunteer and full-time paid firefighters, or persons who were a volunteer or full-time paid firefighter in the Commonwealth of Kentucky that meet eligibility requirements as set forth in the policy, and have submitted a completed eligibility packet to the Fire Commission office.

Peer Support Training

The Kentucky Fire Commission offers Peer Support Training, led by the International Association of Fire Fighters. Held twice per year, this training is designed specifically for firefighters, EMS providers, dispatchers, chaplains, retiress, behavioral health specialists and anyone interested in supporting firefighters during tough times.

 

Questions regarding the Health & Wellness Program should be directed via email to bruce.roberts@kctcs.edu or via telephone at (859) 256-3481.