Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (SBCFPD) will be receiving $1,026,852.17 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.

This funding will be used to provide training to promote Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to Paramedics, creating more career opportunities for first responders in the SBCFPD. This new funding will also start a Wellness and Fitness Assessment program to help the SBCFPD provide annual health exams for firefighters, who are at higher risk of contracting cardiovascular diseases due to the nature of their employment.

“The courageous firefighters in San Bernardino County risk their lives every day to keep our community safe. We owe it to them to ensure they are receiving the highest quality of health care and other benefits,” said Rep. Aguilar. “I’m glad this funding will help the County provide necessary examinations so that any illness or injuries can be addressed quickly and effectively.”

“The health and wellness of our firefighters is constantly at risk. Modern synthetic building materials and unfamiliar gases from electronic components and batteries have amplified concerns about cancer. Firefighters face a significant risk of cardiovascular disease and psychological stress due to frequent exposure to traumatic events, sleep disruptions, and injuries. The significance of this grant is profoundly important to addressing these threats to our firefighter’s well-being. Securing this grant enables us to offer thorough annual examinations aimed at identifying and addressing treatable injuries and illnesses at their earliest stages, where intervention is most beneficial,” said Dan Munsey, Chief of the San Bernardino County Fire Station.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program provides federal funding to help local fire departments train emergency personnel, improve the health and safety of firefighters and ensure that communities are resilient to fire.

Rep. Aguilar has been a steadfast advocate for firefighters in Congress. Since taking office, he has secured over $2 million dollars in federal funding for SBCFPD through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and is a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.