It is well documented that the leading cause of firefighter-on-duty deaths is related to heart disease. There are many risk factors that contribute to the development of heart disease, or atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), with a high body-mass index (BMI) topping the list. Other risk factors include:

- High cholesterol

- High blood pressure

- Smoking

- Diabetes

There is a burning need to reduce this risk. Following these three tips can help diminish the number of heart disease related deaths in firefighters.

1. Stop Smoking
   Research indicates that the damaging effects smoking causes can be reduced within 5-10 years.

2. Eat Clean
   Minimize the processed foods in your diet, and eat fruits, nuts and vegetables regularly. Also, eating more foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid—like flaxseed, walnuts, and canola oil—and omega-3 fats will help reduce the inflammation that causes heart disease.

3. Get Active
   Combined with a healthy diet, exercising 5 days a week lowers your BMI, reducing your risk of heart disease. Fire Rescue Fitness offers several programs to jumpstart your program.