OCALA, Fla. – Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis and Senator Keith Perry recognize May 10th as First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day. This past legislative session, Senate Resolution 618 was passed, creating First Responders Mental Health Day in the Sunshine State.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “It was an honor to join Senator Perry at the State Fire College today to recognize the inaugural First Responders Mental Health Awareness Day. When we hear the term ‘first responder’ – we think of bravery, protection, service and sacrifice. And we should – our first responders don’t flee in the face of dangerous situations; they perform their jobs to protect Florida’s families and communities. But often, we don’t think about the firefighter, police officer or paramedic being unable to cope with what they see while on duty. Too many of these brave Floridians have suffered and struggled in silence.