Fire commission leaders would help approve first responder support workers

The Delaware State Fire Commission's commissioners could recognize a crisis support group or network. This applies to people helping first responders after a distressing event that may affect their work or well-being, under rules about whether certain talks are private. The group or network must be nationally accredited and recognized by either the police training commission or the fire commission's commissioners. The helper must be specially trained, meet the group's standards, and have approval to serve from the Fire Commission or the head of their police, fire, or emergency medical agency.

The fire commission's board or executive director could approve a first responder as a trained peer supporter. This covers first responders designated by state, county, or municipal police, fire, or emergency medical agencies, under rules about whether certain talks are private. The responder must have special training to provide wellness support. The responder's agency head may give approval instead.