Addiction and Alcoholism in the Fire Service: A Problem No One Talks About

The fire service is built on courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. But behind the curtain, a darker reality exists—one that too often gets ignored. Addiction and alcoholism are rampant in the fire service, destroying lives, careers, and families. It’s time we talk about it.

The Hard Numbers: Alcohol and Substance Abuse in the Fire Service

The statistics paint a grim picture:

• Alcohol use disorder in firefighters is significantly higher than in the general population. Studies show that 50% of male firefighters engage in binge drinking, compared to just 23% of men in the general workforce.

• A 2017 study found that 29% of firefighters reported drinking heavily, and 9% met the criteria for alcohol dependence.

• Substance abuse is also a growing concern. A study published in Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation reported that 10% of firefighters have misused prescription drugs, particularly opioids and benzodiazepines, often as a result of on-the-job injuries.

• Mental health and addiction go hand in hand. Firefighters with PTSD are six times more likely to abuse alcohol and four times more likely to engage in drug use than those without PTSD.

Why Is Addiction So Common in the Fire Service?

Firefighters face extreme stress, trauma, and a culture that often prioritizes toughness and resilience over mental health. Here’s why addiction takes hold so easily in this profession:

1. The Weight of Trauma

Firefighters see the worst that is in the human soul—abuse, fatal car wrecks, child drownings. These experiences leave scars. Many turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to numb the pain, leading to dependency over time.

2. The Firehouse Drinking Culture

Let’s be real—alcohol is deeply ingrained in firehouse culture. Post-shift drinks are common, and in many departments, it’s almost expected. What starts as bonding can quickly turn into a problem.

3. Sleep Deprivation and Stress

Firefighters operate on little sleep, constant adrenaline rushes, and the mental strain of being ready at a moment’s notice. Alcohol and prescription drugs become coping mechanisms for sleep issues and anxiety.

4. Injury and Prescription Drug Use

Firefighting is physically demanding, and injuries are inevitable. Many firefighters are prescribed painkillers after an injury, and some end up addicted. With opioids still widely available, it’s an easy trap to fall into.

5. Fear of Seeking Help

The fire service prides itself on strength. Asking for help is often seen as a weakness, so many suffer in silence. The stigma around addiction and mental health keeps firefighters from seeking treatment until it’s too late.

Breaking the Cycle: Solutions for Addiction in the Fire Service

Acknowledging the problem is step one. But we need real solutions to break this cycle and protect those who dedicate their lives to saving others.

1. Change the Culture

Departments need to shift away from the “drink it off” mentality and foster a culture that prioritizes mental health. Leadership plays a huge role in setting the tone—when officers lead by example, it trickles down.

2. Better Mental Health Support

Departments must invest in peer support programs, (I can't stress this enough) counseling services, and mental health training. Firefighters need access to therapists who understand trauma and addiction.

3. Education on Addiction and Recovery

Training shouldn’t just cover fire suppression—it should include addiction awareness and resources. Firefighters should know the signs of substance abuse and how to get help before it spirals out of control.

4. Alternative Coping Mechanisms

Departments should encourage healthier ways to cope with stress—exercise, mindfulness, and hobbies that provide an outlet without substances. Group workouts, nutrition programs, and even yoga can make a huge difference.

5. Accountability Without Punishment

Firefighters struggling with addiction need support, not judgment. Departments should have programs that allow personnel to seek treatment without fear of being fired. Peer intervention programs can also help firefighters hold each other accountable.

It’s Time to Act

Firefighters are resilient and gritty—but they’re also human. Addiction and alcoholism are taking too many lives, ruining too many careers, and destroying too many families. The fire service needs to do better. We owe it to each other to break the silence, change the culture, and make real support available. The job is hard enough—no one should have to fight this battle alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out to us at www.riseupfight.org. Help is out there, and recovery is possible.

Stay safe out there.