I am the fire chief of a department here in central Illinois. Last night at a meeting I challenged any and all of my firefighters that currently dip or smoke to QUIT along side me, I'm a litttle over 2 weeks in. We'll see who can keep up with the old chief.
Strength in numbers. Congrats on a great decision and keep up the good work.
Well Chief, I applaud your willingness to lead by example. I'm lucky to have a chief just like that as well. Hopefully, it's becoming the rule rather than the exception it used to be.
But take this piece of advice from a fella with only 2 silver trumpets, make sure you have your reasons to quit for yourself always in the forefront of your mind. While quitting is a day to day thing, make sure you know what's going to be the outcome should you become the last man standing in this challenge. When you have "won" there is no excuse to celebrate with a dip. Long after the rank and file have gone back to their addiction, you need to remain vigilant.
It always amazes me how many first responders use tobacco. Public safety personnel spend a great many hours learning to save others lives yet we poison ourselves. Spend half as much time learning how to keep clean and you'll be more effecient than any CPR.
