Indianapolis, In. — Working in public safety is a strenuous, and oftentimes, difficult job. The men and women who put themselves in danger to keep our communities safe should not go unnoticed, and their physical and mental health is critical to the jobs they do. I proposed legislation to establish a research fund to further study the effects that mental and physical stress have on our personnel and provide them with the best care.
Fire protection, emergency medical services and law enforcement are some of the most difficult jobs in the country. They face both physical and psychological dangers due to their professions. Dropping everything to serve our communities is a noble pursuit, and the extreme conditions of the job can sometimes take its toll on individuals.
There have been numerous studies by the National Institute for Public Safety Health or NIPSH that indicate a need for improvements in the overall well-being of our first responders. According to NIPSH, the average age of a firefighter when they experience a heart attack is 49, when the average age for the general public is 66. Additionally, 40 percent of law enforcement officers have a sleep disorder that puts them at a higher risk for depression, stroke, obesity and accidents. These statistics are alarming, and there should be something done to find ways to better improve the health of these brave men and women.
My legislation would create a Public Safety Research Fund, directed by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, to partner with NIPSH to help oversee Indiana’s studies. The state would conduct research to make recommendations to improve safety equipment and procedures, mental and physical health, and daily routines of our Hoosier first responders.
Continuing to improve and build upon existing information concerning the health of our public safety officers is a subject that is close to my heart. These men and women deserve the best resources and information available, and it is my hope that this legislation would help guide us on ways to best serve their needs. If you have any questions or input on this legislation or others, contact me at 317-234-9450 or email h67@iga.in.gov.
