Doctors at UPMC are trying to raise awareness about the benefits of napping for first responders.
KDKA’s Meghan Schiller found out this new napping study applies to everyone looking to make informed decisions about rest but especially applies to first responders, police officers, firefighters, pilots, train operators and other high-risk jobs.
Research shows their ability to stay awake and make decisions with a clear mind directly impacts people’s safety.
“We call it a safety nap. When they can get a safety nap in, it’s a really good idea to do that. Any deposits into the sleep bank is important for these guys because they might be up for the entire night,” said Greg Porter, assistant director of the Ross/West View EMS. When lives are on the line, Porter expects his paramedics to feel rested.