The 2026 Healthiest Fire Department Challenge Begins

The Sullivan 180 Healthiest Fire Department Challenge kicked off its 4th year on January 1 with 11 departments geared up to participate! In the first three full weeks of the challenge, departments have completed almost 100 points, focusing on nutrition, physical and mental health. Working out, taking walks, stretching, setting health goals, and enjoying healthy meals together are just a few highlights from the first few weeks of the challenge.

The Healthiest Fire Department Challenge is a health and wellness competition for Sullivan County fire departments that encourages physical, nutritional, and mental health activities. Departments earn “turtle points” for completing health-focused events, workouts, and trainings, with at least five members participating. At the end of the challenge, these turtle points make the departments eligible for grant funding and awards, promoting healthier lifestyles while supporting the firefighting community.

Year 4 marks a renewed focus on encouraging consistency; establishing healthy habits that can be sustained over time. A new “point stacking” model makes it possible to earn points consistently; helping departments build healthy habits and routines over the full challenge through September.

For more information visit http://sullivan180.org