Get Ready for American Heart Month

Heart disease causes about 29 percent of all U.S. deaths each year, making it the number one cause of death in America. First responders are at an even higher risk of heart disease due to occupational and environmental risk factors. Heart disease remains the number one cause of on-duty firefighter fatalities, with just under half of all line-of-duty deaths each year attributed to heart attacks.
 
American Heart Month, held each February, is a national event that aims to renew the nation’s commitment to fighting heart disease and increasing public awareness of how to prevent cardiovascular illnesses. As a firefighter or emergency responder, you face additional stress factors on your heart, lungs, body, and mental health as part of the job - all of which can affect your heart-health. American Heart Month is an opportunity to educate yourself and your department members about adopting and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle.
 
Plan your department’s American Heart Month activities now utilizing tools and resources from the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program. The Program offers information on health issues unique to firefighters, the Fired Up for Fitness Challenge to help you stay motivated on your fitness plan, monthly health challenge ideas, and more. Stay tuned to the Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program web site and E-news for more American Heart Month ideas.