Daniel Higuera, PhD | Orange, CA
Dr. Daniel Higuera shares insights on reducing stress and improving firefighter wellness in a firefighter wellness course.
“Your wellness is in your hands.”
In the demanding world of firefighting, where stress and health challenges are ever-present, Dr. Daniel Higuera stands out as a passionate advocate for firefighter wellness. His journey into the fire service and his mission to bring research-driven health insights to firefighters across the globe make him a vital voice in the community. In this featured firefighter article, we explore Dr. Higuera’s path, his message to firefighters, and his vision for a healthier future in the fire service.
What initially inspired you to begin working with firefighters?
Dr. Higuera’s entry into the fire service wasn’t a grand, winding tale but a practical step that evolved into a calling. Starting as a part-time adjunct instructor for the Department of Fire Technology, he seized the opportunity for a full-time role. What truly ignited his passion was a startling statistic from a 2015 NFPA needs assessment: less than 73% of U.S. fire departments had any health and wellness program or education. “That stat hit me hard,” he recalls. “In Southern California, we’re spoiled with resources, but three-quarters of firefighters nationwide lack access. I thought, social media’s where everyone’s at—let’s bring the research there.” By sharing snippets on mental health, cancer, injuries, and sleep, Daniel sparks conversations that resonate at firehouse tables, empowering firefighters in rural areas and underfunded departments with free, accessible knowledge.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside his mission-driven work, Dr. Higuera keeps his schedule packed. A self-professed gym enthusiast, he lifts weights and gets his heart rate up four to six times a week. Jiu-jitsu is another passion, with regular training sessions on the mats. Beyond exercise, Dr. Higuera is an avid reader, with hundreds of books in his library. He recently started Find Out Anything from Anyone, Anytime, diving into it with curiosity. His side hustle? Buying, fixing, and renting out old houses—a hands-on hobby that keeps him grounded and engaged.
What message would you like to deliver to the firefighters out there?
Dr. Higuera has one clear message to firefighters: “Your wellness is in your hands.” He emphasizes personal responsibility, urging firefighters to take control of their habits despite external challenges like demanding crews or unsupportive departments. “Some say, ‘It’s my captain, my chief,’ but there’s so much you can control,” he says. Whether it’s breaking bad habits or starting new ones, Dr. Higuera believes individual action is key. He tailors his message to resonate with each firefighter, ensuring it’s practical and relatable, so they can apply it daily to improve their health and performance.
What changes do you foresee in the fire service in the next five years?
Looking ahead, Dr. Higuera envisions transformative changes. First, he predicts wearable technology will revolutionize the fire service, much like in sports science. By tracking metrics like call volume, nighttime wakeups, and heart rate variability, departments can predict readiness and injury risk, tailoring workloads to individual firefighters. “A young firefighter might handle 12 calls just fine, but a 42-year-old with kids might need to dial back after five,” he explains. Second, he notes a growing interest in hormone replacement therapy, like testosterone, as call volumes rise (up 300% since the 1980s) and stress mounts. While not endorsing it, he sees firefighters exploring it to cope with workload pressures, urging informed decisions with physicians. Finally, he warns of a darker trend: without better mental health solutions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and suicide rates could climb as call volumes strain firefighters. “We need empathetic solutions, and fast,” he stresses.
Can you share a story from your time working with the fire service?
Dr. Higuera’s most impactful lesson came from a communication misstep. Early on, he spoke to firefighters like athletes, using jargon about bilateral strength deficits. “I failed miserably,” he admits. “I was talking at them, not to them.” It took three years to realize he needed to speak their language. He started framing wellness in firehouse terms: “Imagine a 2 a.m. lift assist in a cramped bathroom, relying on your weaker leg. You don’t want your knee to give out.” Finally, it all clicked. Firefighters became much more engaged, the energy in the room soared, and they wanted more. By relating to their daily grind—overcrowded bathrooms, heavy patients, high-stakes calls—Dr. Higuera earned their buy-in, proving empathetic communication is key to driving change.
Daniel Higuera’s journey, from a chance role in fire technology to a leading voice in firefighter wellness, should serve as an inspiration to anyone looking to make a difference in the fire service. His dedication to empowering individuals, leveraging technology, and addressing mental health challenges positions him as a true advocate for the fire service. As he continues to share research and spark conversations, Dr. Higuera is paving the way for a healthier, more resilient fire service.
To follow Dr. Higuera's insights, check out his social media on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-higuera) or Instagram (@dr.danielhiguera).