QUICK SUMMARY
The Lakewood City Council has designated March 24-28, 2025, as "First Responder Wellness Week" to honor the vital contributions of first responders and address the mental and physical challenges they face. The proclamation highlights the high risk of PTSD and other health issues among these professionals, emphasizing the importance of wellness support. The initiative also includes funding for a wellness room at the Lakewood Police Department, aiming to enhance officer well-being.
The Lakewood City Council has officially declared March 24-28, 2025, as "First Responder Wellness Week" to honor the dedicated work of first responders and address the significant challenges they face. In their proclamation, the Council emphasizes that first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel, often encounter life-threatening situations while serving the community. The statistics are alarming; law enforcement officers experience an average of 188 critical incidents throughout their careers, leading to a notably higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder—up to 25.6 times more than those without such experiences. The proclamation advocates for wellness support initiatives that focus on critical areas like sleep management, nutrition, and stress reduction. Additionally, the Lakewood Police Department has recently received a $10,000 grant from Gesa Credit Union to create a wellness room aimed at helping officers de-stress and improve their physical health. This funding will also help update aging fitness equipment in the department's weight room. The City Council is urging community members to actively show appreciation and support for local first responders, recognizing their sacrifices for public safety. The initiative highlights the importance of fostering a strong wellness culture within first responder agencies to enhance community relations.