Fayette Co Firefighters Critical Incident Response Team

03/22/2026

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Register for our trauma-informed CE courses for first responders. Designed to build resilience by integrating marginal topics into routine training.

02/12/2026

We are Blessed to have Heather as one of our team members and team counselor.

School Counselors play a vital role in our school system. WOAY spoke with two Fayette County school counselors during National School Counselors Week.FOLLOW...

02/06/2026

12/23/2025

Christmas is often described as a season of joy, family, and celebration—but for many first responders, it can also be a time when memories are heavier and emotions feel closer to the surface. The sights, sounds, and expectations of the holidays can intensify stress, grief, and trauma connected to past calls, losses, and experiences. While others may see only lights and laughter, some carry unseen burdens that make this season especially difficult.

If this is you, please know you are not alone—and you do not have to suffer in silence. What you’re feeling is real, and help is available from people who understand the unique challenges of the job. The Fayette County Fire Association CIRT Team is here to support first responders and their families during difficult moments, including the holidays. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of strength and self-care. If the weight feels too heavy, contact us. We’re here to listen, to help, and to walk beside you.

11/24/2025

Does anyone know of any family that needs a Turkey over the holidays? We have 2 large ones, they are frozen, I would like to bless families with them. Let me know or have them get hold of me. I will keep it on the downlow so nobody is embarrassed. I know there are folks in our area hurting this Thanksgiving, we just want to help ease their burden.

[email protected]

11/08/2025

The holiday season, while often filled with joy and togetherness, can be one of the most mentally challenging times of the year for first responders. Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and dispatchers frequently spend holidays away from family, working long shifts while responding to tragic events that contrast sharply with the festive atmosphere around them. The emotional toll of witnessing trauma—especially during a season that emphasizes family, peace, and celebration—can heighten feelings of isolation, guilt, and emotional fatigue. For some, this dissonance can exacerbate underlying stress, depression, or post-traumatic symptoms, contributing to the tragic rise in su***de rates among first responders during the winter months.

Coping requires intentional focus on mental and emotional health. Peer support programs, chaplain services, and critical incident stress debriefings can provide vital outlets for processing the weight of the job. Taking time, even brief moments, to connect with family, faith, or trusted colleagues can help maintain perspective and remind responders they are not alone. Setting healthy boundaries—like limiting overtime, getting adequate rest, and recognizing warning signs of burnout—also plays a major role in prevention. Simple acts such as reaching out to check on a coworker, engaging in physical activity, journaling, or talking to a counselor can make a real difference. Above all, it’s crucial for first responders to know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness; there is no shame in needing support to navigate one of the most demanding seasons of the year.

10/28/2025

Happy National First Responder Day to all those who care for and protect other. Be sure to take care of yourselves while serving your communities. Don't struggle with the stressors of your jobs alone. Reach out. We are always available, not only for Fayette Co but all first responders, law enforcement, 911 communicators, and health care workers. Contact our page, any member, or #989. We are here for you.

09/25/2025

Please reach out to us or dial

09/19/2025

All EMS peeps, family, and friends. Email [email protected] and let them know that WV needs more funds for EMS around the state.

09/19/2025

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