Letting stress go unnoticed or unmanaged within a fire department workforce can lead to problems over time. Psychological trauma leaves invisible scars, so recognizing it isn't always easy. Firefighter supervisors have to work hard to ensure their team members' mental health needs are being met.
After enduring long or irregular hours of high-tension work, firefighters may face accumulating stress and tension. Recognizing early signs that mental health problems are becoming prevalent, such as changes in behavior or loss of interest in favorite things, can help leaders realize when firefighters are succumbing to stress.
Leaders with public safety workforce management software are using fatigue rules to automate schedules that minimize undue stress. Overtime assignment rules are automating shift schedules that promote adequate rest while ensuring fairness. And personnel status automation is being used to alert managers of potential issues.
Technology is providing the visibility needed to keep today's firefighters safe and happy.
