This guidebook helps departments choose a peer support program that fits their needs. It explores department-based and county-wide team options, external peer support services, and app-based tools to enhance accessibility. It summarizes peer support training available from CISM, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Wounded Warriors Canada and more, while outlining each delivery method, time commitment, cost, and strengths. 

This service supports departments recruiting peer supporters by providing job posting templates and interview guides, as well as candidate screening tools evaluated by a mental health professional to support determination of role readiness.

This handbook provides practical questions and supportive statements to enhance peer support conversations. Peer supporters may have limited opportunities to apply their skills and worry about finding the right words. It also includes guidance on documentation and when to escalate concerns through appropriate channels. 

This service ensures adherence to best practices by coordinating annual refresher training and team-building for peer support teams, along with post-incident support to promote high quality interventions and manage compasson fatigue. It includes professional liability insurance coverage, with confirmation of municipal coverage for peer supporters recommended.