Brevard County Fire Rescue (BCFR) recently hosted the UCF RESTORES Trauma Therapy Program for two full days of Peer Support training, aimed at strengthening mental health awareness and support within the first responder community.

According to UCF RESTORES, the average non–first responder experiences two traumatic events in a lifetime, while first responders face an average of three and a half traumatic events every six months. Programs like this are essential in helping firefighters recognize and address the emotional and psychological toll of their work.

The training focused on UCF’s REACT Program, which equips first responders to identify stress injuries and guide peers toward appropriate help:

• R — Recognize common stress injuries among first responders
• E — Evaluate the presence of a stress injury in a peer
• A — Advocate for appropriate resources
• C — Coordinate higher levels of professional care
• T — Track a peer’s progress over time

BCFR extends its appreciation to Brevard County Professional Firefighters, Local 2969, and Back Brevard Heroes for generously providing lunch during both training days.

This ongoing commitment to behavioral health ensures responders receive the support they need—so they can continue serving the community safely and effectively.