KERN COUNTY, Calif. | September 2026 — September is National Suicide Prevention Month. For such an important topic, the Kern County Fire Department would like to use the opportunity to highlight an issue that continues to affect firefighters and first responders across the nation: Mental health and suicide within the fire service.
Firefighters and first responders spend their careers responding to trauma, tragedy, and some of the most difficult moments people experience. Overtime, the cumulative impact of these experiences, combined with the demands of the profession, can take a significant toll on one’s mental and emotional well-being. Behind the uniform is a person, a family member and a human being who can struggle just like anyone else.
“Firefighters are trained to take care of others, but we also have to recognize the importance of taking care of our own,” said Kern County Fire Chief Aaron Duncan. “We don’t want anyone to hesitate to ask for help. We want firefighters and first responders to know that their mental health matters, their lives matter, and they never have to face those struggles alone.”
Suicide prevention within the fire service starts with breaking the silence. It means checking on your own coworkers, recognizing when something may not be right, and creating an environment where asking for help is viewed as an act of strength and not weakness.
The Kern County fire department encourages firefighters, first responders, their families, and the community to help start the conversation. If you are struggling, reach out. If you know someone who may be struggling, check on them. A conversation can save a life.
Firefighters and first responders can access support through peer support programs inside the department. They also can seek support through employee assistance programs, behavioral health professionals, and other fire service resources. Anyone experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis can call or text 988 to reach the suicide and crisis lifeline in an immediate emergency, call 911.
Sometimes saving a life starts with a conversation!
