Critical Incident Response Service (CIRS)

“Serving the men and women that serve our communities”

Established in 2002, the Critical Incident Response Service (CIRS) provides peer counseling to law enforcement and emergency services workers and their families who confront life-threatening circumstances in the line of duty. 

CIRS has operated for over a decade, serving the psychological needs of emergency response personnel and addressing potential dangers of their increased exposure to trauma and stress.  As you can imagine, police officers are exposed to levels of stress critical incidents uncommon for most.  They are at significantly greater risk of emotional, cognitive, and psychological injury than other occupations.  Early intervention and response from trained peers has been shown to significantly mitigate this damage.

The education and assistance provided by the CIRS addresses both prevention and access to available services.  Ultimately, this program is designed to reduce the cumulative effect of stress.  The primary goals of CIRS are to reduce self-destructive behaviors, depression, and violence among emergency responders.  Without intervention, these effects can have a devastating impact on emergency services workers. 

Since its inception CIRS has served law enforcement officers, and emergency service workers.  The effects of acute and/or chronic stress, if not addressed, can lead to a condition known as Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome.  Data suggests that the suicide rate of law enforcement personnel is two to five times the national average.  By providing pre-incident education, peer support, and crisis management training at no cost throughout the state, the CIRS program is committed to preventing and addressing the harmful effects of critical incident stress.

Funding for the CIRS is provided through grants and donations to FOP of Ohio Foundation, a 501c3 organization that accepts tax deductible contributions from individuals, corporations and community organizations.  Operational support for CIRS is provided by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) of Ohio; however CIRS services are available to all emergency service workers, not just FOP Ohio members.

CIRS cannot provide services without the support of individuals and corporations that provide much needed donations each year. Your gift is a tax deductible contribution.  Checks should be written to the “FOP of Ohio Foundation” and addressed to 222 East Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215-4611.  If you have any questions or require additional information regarding CIRS or the Ohio FOP Foundation please call 614-224-5700.

Sincerely,

Jay McDonald

FOP of Ohio Foundation President