About the Initiative

The Fire Service Joint Labor Management Wellness-Fitness Initiative (the 10 Cities initiative) is a historic partnership between the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) to improve the wellness of fire department uniformed personnel. Ten U.S. cities and Canadian public professional fire departments participate in the initiative which was introduced in 1997. Each of these departments have committed themselves to this Wellness-Fitness Initiative by requiring the mandatory participation of all of their uniformed personnel in this program.

The Initiative is intended to be implemented as a positive individualized program that is not punitive. It consists of five main components:

• Medical
• Fitness
• Medical/fitness/injury rehabilitation
• Behavioral health
• Data collection and reporting
  
  All component results are measured against the individual's previous examinations and assessments and not against any standard or norm.

The fire service's greatest asset is not equipment, apparatus or stations, but rather its personnel. It is through personnel that the fire departments serve the public, accomplish their missions, and are able to make a difference in their communities. By committing to a wellness program the fire department gains the members' trust. This trust enhances every program and each call answered by the fire department. Therefore, placing a high priority on wellness makes sense for everyone including fire service personnel, tax payers, and the public served.

Download the IAFF/IAFC Wellness-Fitness Initiative

Requires Adobe Acrobat to read. it's free!

For more information, contact the International Association of Fire Fighters at
(202) 737-8484.

Public Safety Medical Services is proud to be the medical and wellness program provider for the Indianapolis Fire Department.