02/27/2025
Be kind
We recently had a crew go out to the pickle ball courts at Mountain Creek Park and was questioned. Sometimes we forget that these men and women live at our fire stations for 48 hour tours. This is their home for those 48 hours, they need to eat, sleep, exercise and take care of their mental health.
One of our followers, Betty Thompson from Lady Lake, asked: “I see Engine 52 parked near the pickleball courts while the crew is playing together. Is this something you do often?”
Betty, that’s a great question! The short answer—yes, you’ll see Lake County Firefighters staying active, and sometimes that means hitting the pickleball courts. But there’s a lot more to it than just a game.
We’re not just firefighters when the alarm sounds, we’re the Face of Lake County every day. No other county employees interact with the public as much as we do. You see us at the grocery store, in your neighborhoods, and yes, even at the pickleball courts. Staying in top physical shape isn’t just part of the job, it’s what allows us to be ready when you need us most.
But firefighting doesn’t just take a physical toll; it weighs on us mentally too. The stress, the long shifts, and the calls we’ll never forget can lead to PTSD, anxiety, and burnout. That’s why staying active isn’t just about strength and endurance, it’s about protecting our mental health. Pickleball has become a go-to for us because it’s fast, competitive, and forces us to stay in the moment. It clears our heads, builds camaraderie, and helps us reset after the tough calls.
So if you see us playing, don’t be shy, say hello, grab a paddle, and bring your best game. Just remember, we don’t back down from a challenge!
