Firefighters
put their lives on the line daily, not just in the face of fire but also from
the lingering effects of the job. One of the most pressing concerns is the high
rate of cancer among firefighters, which is linked to exposure to hazardous
materials. In response to this, the Ontario government has introduced the Fire
Protection (FP) Grant for 2024-25, specifically targeting cancer prevention.
For fire departments across Ontario, this grant is an opportunity to enhance
the safety and health of their firefighters through the acquisition of
essential equipment and infrastructure.
Understanding the Need for
Cancer Prevention in Firefighting
Cancer is a
significant risk for firefighters, with studies showing that they are up to
four times more likely to develop the disease compared to the general
population*. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of implementing
effective cancer prevention measures. Contaminated Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) is one of the primary sources of exposure to hazardous
chemicals and biological contaminants, which can remain on gear even after the
fire is out.
The FP
Grant focuses on equipping fire departments with the tools they need to reduce
this risk. By prioritizing cancer prevention, fire departments can
significantly lower the chances of their team members developing
life-threatening illnesses.
*source: news.ontario.ca
Key Equipment Eligible for
FP Grant Funding
Several
types of equipment are eligible for funding under the FP Grant. Among the most
significant are the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and personal SCBA
facepieces. These items are essential in protecting firefighters from inhaling
harmful substances during and after firefighting operations.
SCBA and Personal SCBA Facepieces
The SCBA
and personal SCBA facepieces provide breathable air in hazardous environments,
preventing the inhalation of toxic fumes and smoke. However, to maintain their
effectiveness, these items must be regularly tested, inspected, and replaced as
necessary. The FP Grant provides the necessary funds to ensure that fire
departments can purchase additional SCBAs and facepieces, allowing for a higher
rotation and minimizing the risk of contamination.
Bunker Gear Extractors
Bunker gear
extractors are another key component in cancer prevention. These machines are
designed to thoroughly clean firefighter gear, removing harmful substances that
can cling to fabrics even after a fire. The grant's inclusion of bunker gear
extractors ensures that fire departments can keep their gear in top condition,
reducing the risk of exposure to carcinogens.
Field Decontamination Kits
Field
decontamination kits, which include hoses, nozzles, brushes, and
decontamination wipes, allow firefighters to begin the decontamination process
immediately after exposure. By removing contaminants as soon as possible, the
risk of long-term exposure is significantly reduced. This is a critical first
step.
Infrastructure
Improvements for Enhanced Safety
In addition
to equipment, the FP Grant also supports minor infrastructure improvements
aimed at enhancing firefighter safety. For example, the installation of shower
and decontamination facilities at fire stations allows firefighters to clean
off hazardous substances before leaving the station, further reducing the risk
of contamination.
Broadband and Internet
Connectivity
Modern
firefighting requires access to real-time data and communication, which is why
the FP Grant also covers improvements to broadband and internet connectivity.
By ensuring that fire stations have reliable internet access, fire departments
can better coordinate during emergencies and access vital information quickly.
The Grant Application
Process: Simple and Effective
The process
of applying for the FP Grant has been streamlined to ensure that fire
departments can quickly and effectively secure the funding they need. Fire
departments are encouraged to submit proposals that cover multiple eligible
projects, maximizing the impact of the grant. For example, a department might
apply for both equipment purchases and infrastructure improvements in a single
application, ensuring that all aspects of firefighter safety are addressed.
The grant
allocation is based on the number of active fire stations within a
municipality, with funding ranging from $8,000 to $10,000 per station. This
ensures that even smaller fire departments have access to the resources they
need to protect their firefighters.
Prioritizing Health and
Safety
The FP
Grant is a vital resource for fire departments across Ontario, enabling them to
take proactive steps in cancer prevention. By investing in essential equipment
like SCBA and bunker gear extractors, and by improving infrastructure, fire
departments can better protect their members from the dangers of the job. The
grant not only supports the immediate needs of fire departments but also lays
the groundwork for long-term health and safety improvements.
For fire
departments, applying for the FP Grant is a crucial step in safeguarding their
teams. The health and safety of firefighters should always be a priority, and
the FP Grant provides the necessary support to make that possible.
P.S. Applications are now being accepted for the 2024-2025 Fire Protection Grant and will be open until September 5 at 5 p.m. EST. Applications will be submitted through the Transfer Payment Ontario system here: https://www.app.grants.gov.on.ca/tpon/psLogin
Here are some useful links:
- Fundings opportunities: https://www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government#section-6
- Get funding: https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-funding-ontario-government
- Cancer prevention checklist: https://www.ontario.ca/page/firefighters-cancer-prevention-checklist