Firefighter death calls for more mental health support

The tragic death of a Winnipeg firefighter prompts calls for more mental health support in Manitoba.

Preston Heinbigner will be remembered as a loving husband and father and will be recognized next week in the Manitoba legislature.

Flags at fire stations in Winnipeg are at half-mast to honor the life of Heinbigner, who was a firefighter for 17 years.

Advocates say they are hearing from first responders at an unprecedented rate. While they say it's a step toward breaking the stigma against support seekers, people like Heinbigner need those supports sooner.

“In our world, in our work, we see unnatural things. And we are exposed to unnatural situations, sometimes for long periods of time. And these things can have a negative impact on our members,” said Tom Bilus, president. United Firefighters of Winnipeg.

Bilus said Heinbigner's death has had a profound effect on Winnipeg's firefighting community.

“We need more resources, more mental health response. We need the ability to see more of our members in real time.”

Advocates also want to make it socially acceptable to ask for help.

“It's okay to not feel good,” said Scott Maxwell, executive director of Wounded Warriors Canada. “As an injured professional, it's impossible to deal with what they did.”

According to the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS), psychological complaints against members of the Manitoba Workers' Compensation Board have been on the rise in recent years, with 118 claims made in 2023.

“I think this is just the tip of the iceberg,” Bilus said. “I think the number is much higher than that, and that's very concerning.”

The Manitoba government says it's ready to support first responders, but won't say how it plans to do so.

“The focus for me right now is on the member's statements,” said Waverley MP David Pankratz. “Bringing the community together and making sure we really honor Preston and his family.”

WFPS and the United Firefighters of Winnipeg say they are working together to support Heinbigner's family during this difficult time.