If you're new here, we are the First Responders Support Training (FRST) Center, and we're dedicated to promoting health and wellness for first responders statewide. This month, we’re excited to feature Firefighter Charlie Kludt and share national and South Dakota specfic firefighter resources. We are excited to have you here!
National Volunteer Week (April 20th-26th)
As we reflect on National Volunteer Week last month, we want to take a moment to highlight the incredible contributions of volunteer first responders. Thank you for your unwavering service and dedication to your departments and communities. The world wouldn’t be the same without you!
Support from Volunteer Firefighter in the Field
Charlie Kludt
Viborg Volunteer Fire Department Firefighter, President of the South Dakota Firefighters Association (SDFA) and National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) board member
“The SDSU team’s intent to develop simple exercises and nutritional habits that time constrained, volunteer individuals could still accomplish was easy to get behind and support. We want all our volunteer firefighters to be healthy so they can get home safely after a call.”
Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters (April 27th-May 4th)
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation created Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters to recognize the 25th anniversary of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. Since its creation, this movement has expanded to include fire departments and families lighting their homes in red.
The South Dakota Firefighters Association strives to support the South Dakota Fire Service and South Dakota Emergency Services & First Responders by providing member benefits, insurance coverage, providing input on policy decisions, lobbying, training, financial support for District Fire Schools and hosting events for continuing education, professional development and networking.
Nonprofit organization focused on promoting quality educational awareness and research to reduce physical and psychological health and wellness issues for first responders.The Center receives funding through private donations from individuals, organizations, corporations and foundations.
Dr. Sara Jahnke's website focuses on "bridging the gap between first responders and research scientists by interpreting data used to develop policies and best practices."
Women in Fire is an organization dedicated to championing female leadership and participation within the fire and emergency services. While their focus is on women, their membership includes male firefighters of all ranks, as well as institutional supporters.
The NFR for Cancer is a registry to study cancer among firefighters. All U.S. firefighters, with or without cancer, active, former, or retired, can join. Having many types of firefighters (structural, wildland, and others) join is crucial to examining relationships between firefighter activities and cancer.
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Stay Tuned For Our Next Newsletter
Hydration and Exercise tips from our Registered Dietitian and Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach
Results from our previous survey in South Dakota Volunteer Firefighters
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
