The Eagle Point Police Department has joined thousands of public safety agencies around the United States this week to recognize the sacrifices made by law enforcement, firefighters, dispatchers and EMS providers.
On March 12th, the Eagle Point City Council adopted a resolution to recognize March 25th-29th as "First Responder Wellness Week."
First responders risk their lives every day as part of their duties. The nature of the work increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and decreases life expectancy to a level much lower than the national average. First responders -- on average -- are exposed to 188 critical incidents through the course of their careers, increasing risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder more than 25 times higher than the average individual.
All week, members of EPD have been given tips and training opportunities to learn more about how to increase resiliency and ways to foster a healthier lifestyle.
EPD Chief Jim Hamilton said combating stress and ensuring more wellness training will help keep his officers safe and ensure they experience long and productive careers.
Hamilton said topics include fitness, peer support, nutrition, mental health and family support. He said these topics are being shared through their cooperative agreement with Lexipol, a policy and training organization for first responders.
