Winnipeg firefighters, paramedics off the job for 17,600 hours over 10 months due to psychological injuries
Last year, psychological injuries forced paramedics and firefighters in Winnipeg off their jobs for thousands of hours, further straining already understaffed essential services. The fallout from these injuries is also leading to burnout among on-the-job members, their respective unions, and a Canadian expert in the field.
Data from the City of Winnipeg revealed that 189 claims from Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) members were processed by the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba (WCB) for psychological injuries at the workplace between January and October 2024. Out of these claims, 41 resulted in 17,626 hours of leave granted to firefighters and paramedics who were unable to work due to mental health issues – the highest number recorded since 2019. Firefighters were off the job for 2,896 hours, while paramedics accounted for 14,730 hours in psychological claims.
Ryan Woiden, president of MGEU Local 191 – the union representing Winnipeg paramedics – expressed concern over the significant number of lost hours, equating to more than 1,100 12-hour shifts left vacant. This shortage in staffing meant a decrease in the number of ambulances available to respond to 911 calls, potentially impacting the safety of the community.
One leading factor contributing to the increase in psychological injury claims among paramedics is the nature of calls they are exposed to. Paramedics are responding to more calls involving domestic and intimate partner violence, leading to a breakdown of society witnessed firsthand. This exposure to traumatic events can take a toll on the mental health of first responders, affecting their ability to provide the necessary support.
Additionally, paramedics are encountering more overdoses due to the toxic drug supply, resulting in volatile behavior from patients and an increased risk of assault on paramedics. The constant exposure to such distressing situations can lead to compassion fatigue and emotional exhaustion among first responders.
Tom Bilous, president of the United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg, highlighted the impact of inadequate staffing levels on the mental health of first responders. The increasing number of calls for service coupled with fewer firefighters on shift has led to a reliance on overtime, contributing to burnout among members who sacrifice sleep, family time, and self-care to fill shift vacancies.
Nick Carleton, a clinical psychology professor at the University of Regina specializing in research and treatment for first responders, emphasized the need for recruiting and retaining personnel to address the mental health challenges faced by public safety personnel. The pandemic exacerbated existing stressors, leading to a rise in mental health issues among first responders already operating in short-staffed departments.
Efforts are being made to address the mental health crisis among first responders in Winnipeg, including the creation of a behavioral unit that pairs WFPS members with mental health professionals and peer support programs. However, more comprehensive strategies are needed to support the mental well-being of first responders and prevent further burnout within essential services.
In conclusion, the escalating number of psychological injury claims and hours lost among paramedics and firefighters in Winnipeg underscores the urgent need for enhanced mental health resources, improved staffing levels, and proactive measures to support the well-being of those who serve on the front lines. Only by addressing these challenges can we ensure the resilience and effectiveness of our essential services in the face of increasing demands and pressures.
