Member Support
Wellness & Mental Health
Support resources for BPFFA Local 536 members and their families.
You Are Not Alone
Firefighting is one of the most demanding occupations in existence, not just physically, but mentally. Repeated exposure to traumatic incidents, shift work, sleep disruption, and the weight of responsibility all take a toll over time.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Local 536 is committed to ensuring every member knows where to turn.
Mental Health & PTSD Support
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and operational stress injuries are recognized occupational hazards for firefighters in Ontario. If you are experiencing intrusive thoughts, hypervigilance, sleep disturbances, emotional numbness, or difficulty returning to work after a traumatic incident, these are recognized symptoms, and effective support is available.
If you are in crisis right now:
Call or text 988. Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7 in English and French. Call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
Do not wait. Reach out.
Presumptive Cancer: Section 21
Ontario's Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (Section 21) recognizes a list of cancers as presumptively work-related for firefighters with qualifying years of service. This means the burden of proof shifts: if you develop a listed cancer, WSIB presumes it is occupational in origin.
Covered cancers include (among others): primary-site bladder, kidney, ureter, colorectal, and esophageal cancers; non-Hodgkin lymphoma; leukemia; and others added by regulation over time.
If you have been diagnosed with any cancer, speak with the Local executive before filing any WSIB claim to ensure you receive the benefit entitlements you are owed.
IAFF Member Assistance Program
The International Association of Fire Fighters operates a Member Assistance Program (MAP) providing confidential counselling, referrals, and peer-support resources for members and their families.
Full details, contact information, and eligibility are available through the IAFF directly:
- IAFF Behavioral Health Resources: visit the IAFF website and navigate to Member Resources → Behavioral Health.
OPFFA Resources
The Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association provides occupational health and wellness support specific to Ontario members, including WSIB guidance, mental health referrals, and critical-incident support contacts.
- OPFFA Occupational Health & Wellness: visit the OPFFA website for member support resources.
All inquiries are treated with complete confidentiality.