East Garrison, CA — June 16, 2026 — In a strong show of commitment to the mental health and resilience of first responders, FRMS (Fire Risk Management Services) sponsored and delivered an FRRI (First Responder Resiliency Initiative) training for the Monterey County Regional Fire District and partnering agencies.
The valuable training brought together 25 attendees from multiple fire service organizations, strengthening regional collaboration around one of the profession’s most critical issues: firefighter mental health.
Regional Collaboration for a Critical Cause
The training welcomed participants from:
- Monterey County Regional Fire District
- CAL FIRE
- North County Fire District
- Cachagua Fire Protection District
This multi-agency participation reflects a growing recognition across jurisdictions that mental health challenges, such as cumulative stress, trauma exposure, and burnout, require unified, proactive solutions.
FRMS ensured that the training environment supported both learning and well-being by providing meals and snacks, fostering opportunities for connection, discussion, and peer support throughout the day.
Recognizing Key Contributions
FRMS staff expressed sincere gratitude to Marisela Arreguin, HR Officer for the Monterey County Regional Fire District, for her instrumental role in expanding participation.
Her efforts to increase attendance helped ensure a broader impact across agencies, allowing more personnel to benefit from the training’s tools and strategies.
“This kind of collaboration is essential. Marisela’s dedication helped amplify the reach and effectiveness of this event, strengthening the region’s collective resilience.”
A Setting That Reflects Service and Community
The training was held at Monterey County Regional Fire Protection District’s East Garrison Station in Marina, California, a location known for its scenic beauty and unique blend of community and service-oriented surroundings.
Nestled along California’s picturesque Central Coast, the East Garrison Station offers a peaceful and inspiring backdrop, an ideal setting for reflection, learning, and renewal.
Additionally, the area is adjacent to the historic former Fort Ord, now managed in part by the U.S. Department of Defense for environmental and land management purposes. This nearby federal presence reflects a legacy of service and dedication that resonates deeply with the mission of first responders.
Advancing Mental Health in the Fire Service
The FRRI training focused on equipping firefighters and first responders with practical tools to:
- Recognize signs of stress, trauma, and mental health challenges.
- Build personal resilience and coping strategies.
- Support peers through difficult experiences.
- Reduce stigma surrounding mental health in emergency services.
This initiative aligns with a broader movement within the fire service to prioritize psychological health alongside physical safety.
Looking Ahead
FRMS’s sponsorship and leadership in delivering this training highlights a continued commitment to supporting those who serve on the front lines. By investing in mental health education and fostering interagency collaboration, FRMS is helping to build a stronger, more resilient firefighting community in Monterey County and beyond.
As awareness grows and more agencies participate in programs like FRRI, the region is setting a powerful example: protecting those who protect others starts with caring for their mental well-being.
