Perceptions of Alcohol use among US Firefighters

Epidemiologic studies find that many fire service personnel use alcohol at a high rate and report frequent binge drinking episodes. Using formative research methods, we explored perceptions and beliefs about the role of alcohol within the fire service community. Participants were 423 firefighters and fire service administrators from across the United States (US). There were a number of reasons given for the rates of alcohol use among firefighters including the unique shift schedules of career firefighters, the camaraderie and peer support for alcohol consumption, use as a means of stress management, and the traditions surrounding consumption among firefighters. Results point to key areas for prevention and intervention efforts for the fire service.