From Biochemist to Firefighter: Annette Zapp's Mission to Improve Firefighter Health and Safety

We had the pleasure of speaking with Annette Zapp, a former firefighter turned PhD candidate and advocate for firefighter health and safety. Annette's unique journey from biochemistry to firefighting, and now to academic research, offers valuable insights into the challenges facing our first responders and the innovative approaches being developed to address them.

From Biochemistry to Firefighting

Annette's journey is anything but conventional. With a degree in biochemistry from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, she found her way into firefighting, a career she dedicated 20 years to. Now, she's pursuing a PhD, focusing on tactical research that could significantly impact firefighter health and safety.

The Hidden Dangers of Firefighting

While the immediate risks of firefighting are well-known, Annette sheds light on less visible dangers:

1. Cardiovascular Health: The leading cause of firefighter deaths is cardiovascular disease.

2. Mental Health: Alarmingly, suicide rates among firefighters are outpacing deaths from other causes.

3. Sleep Deprivation: The demanding schedule of firefighters often leads to chronic sleep issues.

4. Exposure to Carcinogens: Even cleaned gear can harbor dangerous chemicals and carcinogens.

Current Research: Working Out in Firefighting Gear

Annette's current research focuses on the practice of firefighters working out in their gear. While it might seem logical to "train how you fight," Annette hypothesizes that this practice could be detrimental:

• It may cause biomechanical issues

• It potentially increases exposure to carcinogens and harmful chemicals

Her advice? "Train in your gear as much as necessary, but as little as possible."

Improving Firefighter Health: A Holistic Approach

Annette emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to firefighter health:

1. Sleep Education: Helping firefighters understand the crucial role of sleep in overall health.

2. Nutrition: Creating healthier food environments in fire stations.

3. Physical Fitness: Developing programs that work within the constraints of fire station resources.

4. Mental Health Support: Breaking down stigmas and providing culturally competent resources.

The Future of Firefighter Health

Annette's work highlights the need for proactive, upstream interventions. By educating firefighters early in their careers about potential health risks and providing them with the tools to maintain their physical and mental wellbeing, we can hope to see better outcomes in the long term.

As Annette puts it, "Upstream is the way."

To learn more about Annette Zapp and her work, you can find her on Instagram at @FireRescueWellness or visit her website at www.firerescuewellness.org.