On Friday, August 28, LAAFCA announced the second Firefighter Safety Stand Down. COVID-19 is still a significant challenge across the nation. Although there is evidence of declining infections and hospitalizations, the threat posed by this virus is still real and deserving of our utmost attention.

Why is a second Safety Stand Down needed? To put it simply, now is a time for leadership and unity. Some have relaxed their views regarding COVID-19 protective measures, which can have dire consequences if unchecked. Now is not the time to let out guard down. We must stay in this fight and take care of each other.

Additionally, there is tremendous stress in the fire service as is evidenced by increases in substance abuse, depression, and domestic violence. Behavioral health is a key focus of the second Safety Stand Down video and must be a prime concern within the fire service during this difficult period.

The updated video and additional details can be found on the Safety Stand Down II page, under the COVID-19 link above.