You're invited to the Health & Wellness Seminar on April 18

March 5, 2025

We're excited to partner with the First Responder Center for Excellence and the North Charleston Fire Department to host a Health & Wellness Seminar at the North Charleston Council Chambers on Friday, April 19 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Presentations Include:

• Optimizing Sleep for Physical and Mental Health – Brandon Dreiman, JD, CPRC

According to a recent study, nearly 40% of firefighters have a diagnosable sleep disorder, more than doubling the general population. This presentation provides an interactive format to discuss what sleep cycles are, why they are important, and how they affect health risks, performance, and hormone levels. It evaluates powerful and simple sleep hygiene practices that people often overlook. Next, it discusses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and how it provides remarkably better sleep in six weeks. Attendees will also explore the types and usefulness of various sleep trackers

• Stress Management for First Responders or Selfcare for First Responders – Maurice “Mo” Peacock

This presentation focuses on essential self-care practices for first responders, covering nutrition, stress management, positive coping strategies, the importance of sleep, and mindfulness techniques. It emphasizes building resilience, balancing the brain-body connection, and fostering overall well-being to enhance performance and recovery in demanding roles.

• From Alarm to Action: Reducing Heart Attack and Stroke Risks Among Firefighters – Dr. Brittany Hollerbach

Cardiovascular events remain the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters, often striking without warning. This session delves into the unique cardiovascular risks faced by firefighters due to intense physical exertion, heat exposure, and high-stress environments. Participants will explore the latest research on heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes in the fire service, learn to identify early warning signs, and discover practical strategies for prevention. From fitness and nutrition to stress management and medical screenings, this session offers life-saving insights to help protect firefighters.

• Fit for Duty, Fit for Life - A Holistic Approach to Responder Wellness – Chief Dan Kerrigan

This session will touch on the primary components of a comprehensive approach to health and wellness that focuses on performance, injury reduction, modifiable risk factors and longevity. We will discuss functional fitness, nutrition, hydration, rest & recovery, and the long-term benefits of maintaining a personal health and wellness program.

Register