2021 Updated Edition | IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS)
Overview
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Yellow Ribbon Report: Under the Helmet – Performing an Internal Size-Up provides fire and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel with practical guidance and resources to recognize, address, and manage behavioral health challenges.
Developed by the IAFC Volunteer and Combination Officers Section (VCOS), the report examines the emotional and psychological impacts of emergency response, including occupational stress, compassion fatigue, trauma, and other factors that affect first responder well-being. It offers actionable strategies, educational resources, and recommendations to help departments build supportive environments, strengthen resilience, and promote a culture where seeking help is encouraged.
How the Fire & EMS Service Benefits
The Yellow Ribbon Report helps fire chiefs, officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel:
- Recognize behavioral health challenges: Identify warning signs of stress, emotional exhaustion, and declining mental wellness.
- Strengthen resilience: Develop healthy coping strategies and improve stress management.
- Support peer and organizational wellness: Encourage open communication, peer support, and early intervention.
- Improve leadership awareness: Equip officers with information to recognize and respond to behavioral health concerns among personnel.
- Build healthier department cultures: Reduce stigma surrounding mental health and encourage personnel to seek assistance when needed.
- Support workforce well-being: Promote healthier relationships, improved morale, and a more supportive work environment.
Why This Resource Matters
Fire and EMS personnel routinely encounter high-stress situations that can affect their mental, emotional, and physical health. The Yellow Ribbon Report gives departments a practical starting point for discussing behavioral wellness, identifying potential challenges, and incorporating mental health awareness into training, leadership development, and organizational practices.
By prioritizing the well-being of emergency responders, departments can better support their personnel, strengthen team performance, and maintain readiness to serve their communities.
2017 Original Edition — Awareness and Understanding: Introduces behavioral wellness challenges, encourages discussion, and establishes the importance of mental health within fire and EMS organizations.
2021 Updated Edition — Best Practices and Implementation: Builds on the original report with practical recommendations, behavioral wellness strategies, survey findings, and guidance for implementing departmental support programs.