Maple Ridge Fire Department Pioneers Personalized Genetic Wellness Program for First Responders
In a bold and visionary move that could redefine occupational health for first responders across North America, the Maple Ridge Fire Department has launched a groundbreaking wellness initiative centered on personalized genetic testing. Partnering with Vancouver-based biotechnology firm dnaPower, the department is equipping its firefighters with science-driven insights into their unique genetic profiles—empowering them to take proactive control of their long-term health in the face of one of the most physically and mentally demanding professions.
This innovative program, believed to be among the first of its kind in Canada specifically tailored for firefighters, represents a paradigm shift from reactive healthcare to preventative, personalized wellness. By leveraging the power of DNA analysis, Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue is not only addressing the immediate occupational hazards of firefighting but also laying the foundation for sustained resilience, enhanced recovery, and improved quality of life throughout firefighters’ careers and into retirement.
The Unique Health Challenges of Firefighting
Firefighters routinely confront a complex array of occupational hazards that extend far beyond the flames they battle. Chronic exposure to carcinogens in smoke, volatile organic compounds, and other toxic substances significantly elevates their risk for cancers, respiratory illnesses, and cardiovascular disease. Simultaneously, the job demands peak physical performance under extreme stress, often compounded by irregular sleep patterns, psychological trauma, and high levels of systemic inflammation.
These cumulative stressors can silently erode health over time, sometimes manifesting years after exposure. Traditional wellness programs—while valuable—often take a one-size-fits-all approach that may overlook individual biological differences. Recognizing this gap, Maple Ridge’s leadership sought a more tailored strategy to support their personnel.
A Personal Journey Sparks Institutional Change
The catalyst for this initiative came from an unexpected source: Assistant Fire Chief Nick Virs. An avid listener of health and wellness podcasts, Virs became intrigued by the potential of genetic testing to inform personalized health decisions. After personally undergoing dnaPower’s comprehensive genetic analysis, he was struck by the depth and practicality of the insights it provided.
“I found it incredibly insightful,” Virs shared. “It wasn’t just a list of risks—it gave me actionable steps I could take based on my own biology. Things like how my body processes toxins, manages inflammation, or responds to certain nutrients. That level of personalization is powerful.”
Motivated by his experience, Virs brought the idea to the department’s wellness committee. His advocacy, combined with strong support from leadership, quickly turned a personal discovery into an institutional priority. “Having healthy, educated firefighters is a high priority for us,” Virs emphasized. “dnaPower provided a secure, affordable way to give our members personalized information to optimize their health—not just react to problems after they arise.”
Why dnaPower? Privacy, Science, and Affordability
Several critical factors made dnaPower the ideal partner for this initiative. First and foremost was the company’s Canadian ownership and commitment to data sovereignty. All genetic data collected through the program remains securely stored within Canada, adhering to stringent privacy standards and alleviating concerns about sensitive health information being transferred across international borders—a major consideration for public safety agencies.
Additionally, dnaPower’s testing platform is grounded in peer-reviewed science, focusing on clinically relevant genetic markers that influence key health domains such as detoxification pathways, inflammatory response, cardiovascular resilience, hormonal balance, and micronutrient metabolism. Unlike direct-to-consumer tests that offer broad ancestry or entertainment-focused reports, dnaPower delivers targeted, evidence-based insights designed to inform real-world lifestyle and nutritional choices.
Equally important was cost-effectiveness. The program was seamlessly integrated into the department’s existing wellness budget without requiring additional funding—a testament to both dnaPower’s scalable model and Maple Ridge’s strategic planning. This affordability ensures the initiative is sustainable and potentially replicable by other departments with limited resources.
Transforming Wellness from Reactive to Proactive
Participants in the program receive a detailed, personalized report that translates complex genetic data into clear, practical recommendations. For example, a firefighter with genetic variants that impair detoxification enzymes might receive guidance on specific antioxidants or dietary strategies to support liver function. Another with a predisposition to elevated inflammation markers could be advised on anti-inflammatory foods, targeted supplementation, or recovery protocols to mitigate chronic stress responses.
The impact has been tangible. Many firefighters report noticeable improvements in energy levels, sleep quality, and post-shift recovery. Some have even begun sharing the benefits with their families, requesting tests for spouses and children—highlighting the ripple effect of preventive health awareness.
“Our firefighters are our biggest asset,” Virs reiterated. “This program gives them a baseline health profile to build from. It’s not about predicting disease—it’s about empowering individuals with knowledge so they can make smarter choices every day. Once people see the results, it’s going to spread quickly.”
Setting a National Example
The initiative has not gone unnoticed. Fire departments and first responder organizations across Canada and the United States are now looking to Maple Ridge as a model for integrating precision health into occupational wellness frameworks. Dr. Lois Nahirney, CEO and co-founder of dnaPower, praised the department’s forward-thinking leadership.
“Firefighters face unique health challenges that demand equally unique solutions,” Dr. Nahirney said. “Our testing provides actionable insights to support recovery, build resilience, and promote long-term wellness. Maple Ridge has set an inspiring example of how public safety agencies can leverage cutting-edge science to care for those who care for us.”
She noted that the collaboration reflects a broader trend toward personalized, preventative healthcare—especially in high-stress, high-risk professions where early intervention can dramatically alter health trajectories.
A Vision for the Future
While still in its early stages, the Maple Ridge program is already sparking conversations about expanding genetic wellness initiatives to include mental health markers, stress response profiles, and even performance optimization metrics. The department is also exploring ways to integrate these insights with existing fitness assessments, mental health support services, and nutritional counseling to create a truly holistic wellness ecosystem.
More broadly, this initiative challenges the traditional notion that occupational health programs must be generic or reactive. By embracing genomics, Maple Ridge is demonstrating that even in resource-constrained public sectors, innovation is possible—and necessary.
As Assistant Fire Chief Virs aptly put it: “We train our firefighters to handle emergencies with skill and courage. Now, we’re giving them the tools to protect their own health with the same level of intention and expertise.”
In doing so, Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue isn’t just fighting fires—they’re igniting a revolution in first responder wellness that could echo across the continent for years to come.
