They put themselves in harm's way willingly, and without reservation. They face challenges other human beings run from. They keep us safe.
Now it's our turn to give back.
A new bill making its way through the state Legislature would provide a free dedicated hotline for Garden State firefighters and emergency-healthcare providers who find themselves in crisis.
The measure recognizes that dealing relentlessly with injury, violence and often death can be a recipe for mental-health issues and substance abuse.
"Emergency service workers and firefighters have tough jobs, and unfortunately, mental health problems often come with the territory," said state Sen. Fred Madden (D-Camden), one of the bill's lead sponsors.
In a recent study cited by the lawmaker's office, one-third of first responders said they were diagnosed with either depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.