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Tag Archives: sleep deprivation

Sleep Deprivation: The Continuing Challenge for Fire and EMS

August 4, 2026 Leave a comment

By: Robert Avsec, Executive Fire Officer Many U.S. fire and EMS organizations continue to use some variation of the 24-hour shift to provide around-the-clock staffing. For decades, these schedules have been popular among employees because they offer extended time off and flexibility for family life, commuting, and secondary employment. However, growing research on fatigue and sleep deprivation is causing both ...

Why Do Firefighters Work 24-Hour Shifts?

June 14, 2013 7 Comments

We are all together in recognizing and addressing the significant unmanaged risks posed by Fire & EMS personnel suffering from fatigue. The dots are out there. We just need to start connecting them before, once again, someone else does it for us.

The Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA) membership includes fire service leaders, psychologists, and masters-level mental health clinicians (e.g., LCSW, LPC, MFT) who are committed to "building a bridge between professional psychology and the fire service.
Two primary elements of that "bridge" are (1) developing Culturally Competent Clinicians and (2) developing a true understanding of the 5 domains of psychology (Assessments, Intervention, Industrial/Organizational, Operations, and Consultation) and what how they can improve the mental and behavioral health of firefighters and EMS personnel.
It’s essential to practice self-care and check in with yourself regularly. Be aware of how you’re feeling, especially after difficult shifts. Don’t let symptoms of trauma or stress reach a dangerous level. Visit the FSPA website, www.firepsychology.org for more information, including how you can join the effort to "build the bridge!"