The first class of the Fire Service Fitness Specialist Course held at The Cooper Institute in Dallas, TX, addressed the fitness of one of the most physically demanding professions–firefighters. In 2005, more than 47 U.S. firefighter deaths were stress-related and of those, 40 were classified as sudden cardiac deaths. Additionally, an estimated 80,100 firefighters were injured in the line of duty in 2005, an increase of 5.6 percent from 2004. (National Fire Protection Association, NFPA, www.nfpa.org).
The Cooper Institute Fire Service Fitness Specialist Course aims to combat those injuries and preventable deaths by teaching the necessary training in fitness leadership and technical skills. In addition to education on anatomy; resistance and cardiovascular training; and nutrition, specific lectures on lower back health and the new NFPA fire standards–NFPA 1582 and NFPA 1583–are included. The attendees also undergo fitness assessments and some medical screenings.
“It has always been important for us to make the most up-to-date fitness information available to our firefighters,” said Lt. Joel Lavender, Dallas Fire-Rescue. “The Cooper Institute’s reputation in providing quality education in fitness training makes them a logical partner for us.”
The Cooper Institute’s classes are frequently offered to military, government and law enforcement agencies including the Navy, IRS, and regional law enforcement departments across the United States, but this is the first time a course has been customized to concentrate on the demands placed on firefighters.
“We are extremely excited to build on our expertise in servicing law enforcement and military fitness leaders to specifically address hazards and fitness issues affecting the fire service community,” said Roger Reynolds, director of contract relations at The Cooper Institute.
The next Fire Service Fitness Specialist Courses will be offered in February 18-22 and August 25-29, 2008. The cost to attend a course in Dallas is $695. Fire Service Departments interested in participating in this course may contact Ashley Martin at 800-635-7050 or find more information at www.cooperinstitute.org.
