While we are fixing the radios, it is always a good time to be concerned about the health of those using the radios.

Articles on first responder health in national, state and local, fire, ems and police publications have multiplied in the recent past.

The articles range from couch potato wisdom to doctors with advanced degrees. Every first responder has read at least one article as of today I would bet.

Now for the hard part. How many are practicing what they read? Not very many.

The last seven volunteer fire departments I observed spent litttle or no time on an exercise program or health issues. The fast food addiction was alive and well. This coupled with video games, movies or sports events on tv produced the perfect day rooms for the volunteers.

Some missing motivator is still out there that I haven't put my finger on yet.

The lists of first responder deaths and causes of deaths in the backs of many publications has little or minimal impact on changing behavior. Poor performance on a call or longer recovery times are ignored by many. The example of older officers is just not there. Added responsibility, paper work, etc., leaves no time for the "luxury" of exercise. Besides, they did that stuff when they were younger and now it's the young folks turn.

What is the key to this mystery?

Why would anyone eat two boiled chili covered dogs from a food service canteen rehabing folks at a fire or rescue scene? Come to think of it, I have never seen a canteen with many health choices at any scene. I thought they liked first responders.

Anyone got the answers?

A fixed radio would be better in the hands of a healthy responder during a long, exhausting operation.