Gabrielle Franze Advocates for Readiness and Resilience in Emergency Services

Firefighter, paramedic, and canine trainer highlights preparation, fitness, and support systems as keys to safer communities

DELTONA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 30, 2026 /Emergency responders face some of the most demanding conditions in any profession. Physical strain, emotional stress, and unpredictable environments are part of the job. Gabrielle Franze, a Firefighter and Paramedic with the Orange County Fire Rescue Department, is raising awareness around the importance of preparation, physical fitness, and support systems for those who serve on the front lines.

Franze 's message is simple. Readiness saves lives. That readiness starts long before the emergency call comes in.

"You do not get to choose the calls you respond to, " Franze says. "You only get to choose how prepared you are when they happen. "

The Demands of the Job Are Growing

According to national data, firefighters and paramedics respond to millions of emergency calls each year, with medical calls making up nearly 70 percent of total fire department responses in many regions. At the same time, studies show that first responders experience higher rates of physical injury, cardiovascular strain, and mental health challenges compared to the general population.

"Emergency work is both physically and mentally demanding, " Franze says. "You need strength, endurance, and the ability to recover quickly from high-pressure situations. "

She believes preparation must go beyond minimum requirements. It should be built into daily routines as a lifestyle.

Fitness as a Foundation for Safety

As a competitive CrossFit athlete, Franze trains year-round. She credits consistent strength and conditioning with helping her perform safely on the job.

"Fitness is not always about competition for me, " she says. "It 's more about being able to do my job effectively and come home safe. "

Research supports this approach. Firefighters who maintain higher levels of cardiovascular and muscular fitness are less likely to suffer line-of-duty injuries and cardiac events, which remain one of the leading causes of firefighter fatalities nationwide.

"Training prepares your body for the unexpected, " Franze says. "When your body is ready, your mind can focus on the task, and recover afterward. "

Canine Support as a Tool for Recovery and Connection

Beyond the fire service, Franze owns and operates Redline K9 Dog Training in Deltona, Florida. Her work includes training dogs for obedience and behavioral remediation. She also participates with the experts who train her own dogs in emotional support, search and rescue, and detection services.

One of her dogs is certified as an emotional support service dog through a hospital system, while others are trained for disaster recovery and some detection work.

"Dogs offer support in a way that feels natural, " Franze says. "They help break down barriers and provide comfort without judgement, or asking anything in return. "

Studies show that therapy and support dogs can help reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue among first responders. For Franze, canine training is not separate from emergency service. It is about supporting the people wearing the uniform.

"First responders are trained to take care of everyone else, " she says. "They need support too. "

Preparation Is a Daily Choice

Gabrielle Franze emphasizes that readiness is not built during emergencies. It is built in training, repetition, and discipline.

"Train for the worst day, not the best day, " she says. "That mindset applies to firefighting, paramedicine, athletics, and even life. "

She encourages individuals and departments to consider implementing a canine support program and look at small, consistent habits that improve readiness over time such as Regular physical training. Continued education. Mental health awareness. Support networks.

"You do not need perfection, " Franze says. "You need consistency. "

What Individuals Can Do

Franze believes everyone, not just first responders, can take steps toward better preparedness and resilience.

Stay physically active in ways that support your daily responsibilities. Learn basic first aid and CPR, and fire safety. Support local emergency services. Recognize the importance of mental health and recovery.

"Preparedness is a community effort, " she says. "When individuals take responsibility for their own readiness, it strengthens everyone. "

As emergency demands continue to rise, Franze urges people to reflect on how they prepare for stress, challenge, and responsibility.

Train your body. Support your mind. Invest in systems that help people perform under pressure.

"Readiness is not something you turn on, " Franze says. "It 's something you build every day. "

Media Contact:

Gabrielle Franze
RedlineK9training@yahoo.com
www.RedlineK9training.com

SOURCE: Gabrielle Franze

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