On April 9 and 10, volunteers and career staff attended training at the Corps' headquarters. The Mental Health First Aid for Fire/EMS teaches us how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. This 8-hour training provides the skills needed to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. It focuses on the unique experiences and needs of firefighters and EMS personnel and is a valuable resource that can make a difference in their lives, their
coworkers’ and families’ lives, and the communities they serve.

The Rhode Island Department of Health's Violence and Injury Prevention Program and the Center for Emergency Medical Services partnered together to offer this evidence based MHFA program to EMT's in Rhode Island free of charge.