A 37-year-old Picture Rocks Fire and Medical District firefighter died Sunday. According to the department, Michael Defer died at his home. He had been a member of the department since November 2017. In a press release announcing Defer's death, the department concluded with this message: The fire service as an industry, has brought light to the topic of firefighter mental and emotional health. As professionals we work in stressful situations and it often takes a toll on many of us. We are taught to look for signs and symptoms that may be present for those that may need assistance however sometimes they are not there. It is important to bring light to these issues so that we can help our brothers and sisters in their times of need. Michael will be missed dearly.