Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Launches New Fitness Program

The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) is set to implement a new exercise program designed specifically for its firefighters and paramedics. This initiative aims to address the unique physical demands faced by these professionals while also working to prevent workplace injuries. The program is part of a broader effort to enhance employee wellness and reduce the burden of injuries on the organization.

To develop this fitness and wellness program, WFPS is seeking a contractor who will assess the physical job requirements of its staff. The contractor will create tailored exercise programs, conduct physical evaluations, and provide education on essential topics such as sleep, nutrition, and flexibility. According to Scott Wilkinson, Deputy Chief of WFPS, there currently exists a gap in the support and resources available to staff, particularly in the realm of functional fitness that directly relates to their demanding jobs.

Wilkinson elaborated on the specific challenges faced by emergency personnel. “Emergency Medical Services personnel do a lot of work moving in difficult positions, lifting patients, and handling heavy equipment,” he noted. Firefighters, he explained, encounter a wide range of physical demands, from performing overhead work at fire sites to carrying equipment that can weigh between 60 and 65 pounds. The physical strain on emergency call-takers is also significant, often resulting from prolonged periods of sitting during high-stress situations.

The city has allocated $60,000 for this contract, which supplements the existing fitness resources available to WFPS staff. This initiative follows a concerning rise in Workers Compensation Board claims and overtime expenses, which have projected the WFPS to exceed its tax-supported budget by $3 million this year.

While the primary objective of the program is to improve physical health, Wilkinson acknowledged that enhanced fitness could indirectly lead to a reduction in injuries and associated costs. “By keeping people healthier, more fit, and prepared for the functional demands of their work, there would be a side benefit,” he stated, expressing optimism that fewer injuries may result from these improvements.

Support for this initiative extends beyond WFPS leadership. Jeff Browaty, Chair of the city council’s finance committee, emphasized the importance of employee health and safety. “Winnipeggers benefit from a reduction in Workers Compensation claims,” he said, highlighting the public interest in the wellbeing of emergency responders.

Councillor Vivian Santos, who chairs the community services committee, echoed these sentiments, noting the physical challenges inherent in front-line emergency work. “There are a lot of work injuries that come with fire paramedics due to the amount of exertion they have to do,” she remarked.

Union leaders also recognize the value of this program. Nick Kasper, President of the United Fire Fighters of Winnipeg, described the initiative as a small yet significant step toward injury prevention. He stressed the importance of physical fitness in reducing injuries that lead to time loss and hinder the ability to serve the public effectively.

Yet, challenges remain. Kasper cautioned against expecting this program to resolve the ongoing issues of staff shortages and the resulting reliance on overtime. “We’re not going to exercise our way out of the overtime crisis,” he stated, advocating for the hiring of additional personnel. He suggested that WFPS needs to recruit 80 more firefighters to adequately meet the demands of the growing population and increasing emergency call volumes.

Meanwhile, Kyle Ross, President of the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union, which represents Winnipeg paramedics, noted the importance of fitness programs while also addressing the practical constraints faced by staff. “Many paramedics may lack the time to follow new fitness advice,” he said, emphasizing the need for the city to focus on filling vacant positions. As of January 1, 2024, there were 47 vacant paramedic positions in Winnipeg, with a total of 323 paramedics employed.

The WFPS is considering options to address staffing levels, with Wilkinson stating that improvements will depend on future budget processes. The introduction of the new fitness program represents a proactive approach to employee wellbeing and injury prevention, but the successful implementation of these initiatives will require addressing the underlying staffing challenges as well.