TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In recognition of June 27 as PTSD Awareness Day, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is raising awareness on the mental health challenges facing Florida’s first responders and highlighting the passage of vital PTSD training and benefits now available to aid Florida’s heroes in managing the effects of their often hazardous profession.

 

CFO Jimmy Patronis said, “PTSD within our first responder community is real. Firefighters alone attempt suicide at a rate much higher than the general population. These heroes encounter unthinkable tragedy on the job as they work to protect our communities. It is vital they know they’re not alone.

 

“As State Fire Marshal, I advocated for the passage of important legislation to help our first responders recognize and manage PTSD and provide essential benefits now available through Florida’s Workers’ Compensation system. I’m proud to stand by our first responders, just as they stand with us.”

 

CFO Patronis' Division of Workers’ Compensation provides a framework for employing agencies of first responders to build upon for the educational requirement in the PTSD law. Agencies can learn more and download the training materials here.