Miles for MnFIRE Update – 9/17/21

MnFIRE’s newest fundraiser is a walk across Minnesota to raise awareness and much-needed funds for firefighter health. Miles for MnFIRE kicked off on Sept. 12 near Marietta, on the westernmost edge of the state, and is making its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Lac Qui Parle, Chippewa, Kandiyohi, Meeker, McLeod, Carver, Hennepin, Ramsey counties. The walk ends Sept. 18 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.

Beautiful day five of Miles for MnFIRE started off sunny and early in Lester Prairie, with several Lester Prairie firefighters joining Doug Foote on his route, as well as Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Amanda Swenson. Doug made his way through New Germany and Mayer, ending in Waconia yesterday. Firefighters from the New Germany, Mayer and Waconia Fire Departments and community members also kept Doug company, guiding him through their respective cities.

Throughout his walk, Doug has been joined by other firefighters, their families and community members who have seen firsthand the alarming rate of heart attacks, suicide and cancer affecting Minnesota’s hometown heroes.

“Today, we completed the walk into the first town of which I’m very familiar,” said Doug. “I’ve done several triathlons in Waconia, and it was a sight for sore eyes.”

Doug’s long trek from Marietta to St. Paul has so far raised more than $12,000 for MnFIRE to continue its mission of supporting Minnesota firefighter health. There’s still time to make a donation HERE.

With only two days left in Doug’s journey, the end is in sight!

On Saturday, dozens of firefighters from across Minnesota will don their turnout gear and walk with Doug on his final mile to the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial site on the State Capitol grounds. Firefighters can meet at Saint Paul College starting at 1:45 p.m. and join Doug en route around 2:00 p.m. The group is expected to get to the State Capitol Grounds at approximately 2:30 p.m.

Recent News

Getting to know yourself better
June 25, 2025
Keeping alcohol use in check
June 11, 2025
Signs and support for post-traumatic stress injury/disorder
May 23, 2025
A quick guide for mindful living practices
May 7, 2025
Know the facts on testicular cancer
April 23, 2025
9 Tips to ease daily stress
April 14, 2025
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

The connection between PTSD and rescue work like firefighting is clear. Research shows that approximately 20% of firefighters meet criteria for PTSD at some point during their career, compared to a 6.8% lifetime risk for the general population.

Remember that confidential peer support and no-cost counseling visits are available 24/7 for Minnesota firefighters – just call 888-784-6634. mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/#MAP

#PTSDAwarenessDay
... See MoreSee Less

The connection between PTSD and rescue work like firefighting is clear. Research shows that approximately 20% of firefighters meet criteria for PTSD at some point during their career, compared to a 6.8% lifetime risk for the general population.

Remember that confidential peer support and no-cost counseling visits are available 24/7 for Minnesota firefighters – just call 888-784-6634. https://mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/#MAP 

#PTSDAwarenessDay

Congrats to our latest training survey Streamlight Survivor flashlight drawing winner – Kevin Lagos of Saint Paul Fire Department!

Curious about how no-cost MnFIRE trainings can benefit your department? See options here! mnfireinitiative.com/training/
... See MoreSee Less

Congrats to our latest training survey Streamlight Survivor flashlight drawing winner – Kevin Lagos of Saint Paul Fire Department!

Curious about how no-cost MnFIRE trainings can benefit your department? See options here! https://mnfireinitiative.com/training/

As we close out Safety Stand Down Week, Day 5 focuses on Training, used to access existing behavioral health training and develop a long-term plan for keeping behavioral health in the department’s training cycle.

We offer a variety of trainings at no cost to all Minnesota fire departments. From emotional wellness to fitness & nutrition plus many more, you can learn and grow alongside other firefighters in your department. mnfireinitiative.com/training/

Thanks for following along with Safety Stand Down Week!

#safetystanddown2025 #safetystanddown
... See MoreSee Less

Video image

0 CommentsComment on Facebook

Empower is the topic for Day 4 of Safety Stand Down Week. This day encourages firefighters to get help if they need it, reach out to those they see who are struggling, and embrace behavioral health initiatives into the department culture.

With the MnFIRE Assistance Program, we make it as easy as possible for Minnesota firefighters to get the help they need. Just call 888-784-6634. mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/#MAP

#safetystanddown2025 #SafetyStandDown
... See MoreSee Less

Video image

0 CommentsComment on Facebook

Load more
Skip to content