DFR Peer Support Team

When you ask someone how they’re doing, don’t let “I’m good” automatically end the conversation. Pay attention to how they say it, what they’re not saying, and whether something feels off. Sometimes the second question is the one that opens the door: “No really, how are you doing?”

When facing high-stakes moments in our daily lives, how we handle that pressure matters. When facing the aftermath, how we respond matters just as much, because the weight does not always leave when the moment is over. When facing stress, be sure to invest in yourself, take time to reset, and check in with people who understand, because even short breaks can help reduce stress and improve how we recover. When facing the things we often hide behind a great poker face, remember that no one may truly know what we are carrying — that is why programs like R3 exist, to help first responders respond, restore, and resolve with support from people who understand the mission.

Official Department Training 👏

safeTALK
(Su***de Alertness For Everyone )

We hope to see you there!

As first responders and family members, we are often the first line of defense for the people closest to us.

We notice the early changes.
The stress building.
The quiet days.
The moments when someone does not seem like themselves.

Taking care of our people does not mean having the perfect words. It starts with paying attention and being willing to step in.

3 simple ways to help:
1. Notice the change
Look for isolation, anger, exhaustion, or pulling away.
2. Start the conversation
Do not let “I’m good” be the end of it. Ask again.
3. Stay connected
Follow up, sit with them, and help connect them to support.

⚪️ASIST, Applied Su***de Intervention Skills Training, gives our peer support team practical tools to recognize when someone may be at risk and step in with confidence.

⚪️This 2 day certification helps our members move past “checking the box” and into real conversations that can help keep someone safe.

⚪️For a fire department, this strengthens our ability to take care of our own before stress, trauma, or silence turns into a crisis.