Normally fire fighters at Blacksburg fire department are training every Thursday doing some kind of physical skill or task. This past Thursday gave personnel invaluable training on post-incident care of themselves and their fellow firefighters.

At times, firefighters will encounter situations or incidents that they may find overwhelming or traumatic. During these times, we conduct a CISD, or a Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. During the CISD, personnel are given the opportunity to talk to each other collectively about the incident and work through it. Studies have shown a decrease in burnout and post traumatic stress thanks to the CISD.

This is another tool in our toolbox for us to use, so we can continue providing you with exceptional fire service. It begins with us caring for not only our bodies, but our emotions and mindset.