James Williams, the 2016 Safety Officer of the Year, believes the role of safety officers is not just about keeping firefighters safe on the fireground, but includes improving firefighters’ physical and mental health and being proactive in cancer prevention and hearing conservation.
“Think ‘big picture’,” said Williams. “You’ve got to promote your program and promote the concept of health, safety, and wellness in non-emergency settings and in a non-threatening way. One of the goals is to not only reach retirement, but enjoy retirement.”