The First Twenty for Volunteer Firefighters

The First Twenty for Volunteer Firefighters

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of an internet-based firefighter health and wellness program for volunteer fire departments.

A national sample of volunteer fire departments will be recruited for a 6 month, CRCT with a cross-over treatment design to determine the efficacy of The First Twenty (TF20), a wellness program focused on nutrition and fitness for firefighters. Modifications to the existing TF20 will be made to enhance the health coaching features and include tools for program evaluation. Study outcomes (changes in weight, BMI, body fat percentage, waist circumference, dietary intakes, blood pressure, and fitness activities) will be assessed pre- and post-intervention.

This will be the first internet-based, occupationally tailored health and wellness program implemented for the volunteer fire service. TF20 will be an essential cost effective tool to address the epidemic of unhealthy body composition, nutrition and fitness among firefighters.

Inclusion Criteria:

• first responder within a participating fire department
• willing to complete all assessments
• internet accessibility through a computer, tablet or smartphone and ability to use devices appropriately

Exclusion Criteria:

- not a first responder within a participating fire department