The Healthiest Fire Department Challenge hit a new milestone: Monticello still leads with 519 points, Roscoe-Rockland Fire Department holds on to the second spot with 489 points, and Kauneonga Lake rounds out the top three with 378 points. Congratulations to Monticello Fire Department for reaching over 500 points and setting a new challenge record!

This week, multiple departments came together for a presentation about heart health called “It Starts with a Healthy Heart: The Impact of Cardiac Health on Volunteer Firefighters.” According to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, a firefighter’s heart rate increases by 47 beats per minute from the moment the tones drop. 

The dangerous work, heavy uniforms and high-risk environment, accompanied by concerns of high blood pressure, heart health and disturbed sleep patterns are significant health stressors. Congratulations to the departments for continuing to adopt healthy habits for themselves and their communities.