John P. Norris Memorial First Responder Health & Wellness Symposium

Everyday, first responders—firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, and dispatchers—put their lives on the line to protect and serve our communities. While their dedication is unwavering, the challenges they face can take a significant toll on their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. To address these critical issues, we are hosting the John P. Norris Memorial First Responder Health & Wellness Symposium, an educational event dedicated to exploring the unique stressors of emergency service work and the resources available to support those who serve. This symposium will bring together experts in mental health, resilience training, physical wellness, and peer support to shed light on the unseen burdens firefighters, EMS professionals, and wildland firefighters carry. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the challenges these professionals face, the impact on their families and communities, and the importance of providing them with the care and support they deserve. The symposium will kick off on Friday afternoon with a pre-conference presentation on leadership hosted by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Saturday will offer three tracks that participants can choose from: 1) First responder health and wellness topics are presented by experts in areas such as cancer, cardiac health, mental health, sleep, substance abuse, disaster response, spiritual care, and much more. 2) Taking Care of Our Own presented by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. This class will help agencies prepare for a line-of-duty death in the event one should occur. 3) Wildland & forestry firefighter and responders specific health and wellness topics. CE credits will be provided by TEEX and Emergency Education Associates. Whether you are a first responder, a family member, or simply someone who values the people who keep us safe, this event is an opportunity to learn, engage, and take action in supporting first responder health and wellness.