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Stephen Lecce, MPP

Ontario Protecting Firefighters from Cancer-Causing Chemicals

BOLTON — The Ontario government is investing $30 million over three years to provide 374 municipal fire departments with funding to support cancer prevention initiatives. The funding through the Fire Protection Grant will be used to purchase equipment and make infrastructure upgrades to help reduce the long-term effects of exposure to fire-related contaminants and chemicals.


“Firefighters put service over self each and every day, facing dangerous situations to protect their communities,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Our government has been a leader in protecting them, while they’re protecting us. Today’s announcement is another concrete step to make sure these heroes get the care, resources and support they deserve.”


These funds will see fire services across the province purchase specialized washing and drying equipment to decontaminate bunker gear and wildland firefighting coveralls. It will also allow for facility and infrastructure upgrades to allow for proper air purification and ventilation systems.


“Public safety is about more than just equipping our first responders with the tools they need on the job – it’s about ensuring they are looked after and supported both on and off the job,” said Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy. “That’s why this $30 million grant is directly supporting the health of countless firefighters who put their safety on the line every day to protect our communities.”


Firefighters are more likely to experience health problems because of exposure to hazardous chemicals. In Canada, 50 to 60 firefighters die of cancer every year and half of those are from Ontario. This funding will ensure firefighters are kept safe, while they are keeping our communities safe.


The 2024 Budget: Building a Better Ontario supports the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance public safety in Ontario by ensuring fire services have the resources and protections to respond to major incidents and urgent situations.


Quick Facts


  • The $30 million grant will be administered over three years, with $10 million being reserved for each year.

  • There are approximately 33,000 municipal firefighters in Ontario, including over 12,500 full-time, nearly 20,000 volunteer and almost 400 part-time firefighters.


Quotes


"While others run from danger, firefighters run towards it. Our government is serving those who serve by ensuring Ontario's firefighting community has the resources they need to come home safely at the end of the day. That's why through our Working for Workers bills, we are expanding presumptive coverage for occupational cancers such as skin cancer. But we also must do more to prevent occupational cancers and injuries before they happen. Today's investment is part of our whole-of-government plan to safeguard our firefighting community by complementing our Skills Development Fund investments in fire safety training and new training facilities, as well as unlocking $400 million through the WSIB for frontline worker mental health, injury and illness prevention, and recovery."


- David Piccini

Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development


"Ontario is proud to be home to world-class first responders, including firefighters, who go above and beyond every day to support and protect people across the province. This investment will ensure municipal fire fighters, including those in Dufferin-Caledon, have the resources and protections they need as they work to keep people and families safe."


- Sylvia Jones

MPP Dufferin–Caledon


"This funding is a testament to our commitment to building a safer, healthier Caledon, not just for today but for the future. As our community continues to grow rapidly, it’s critical that we invest in the well-being of our firefighters who play a vital role in protecting our residents. This grant is a significant step forward in ensuring Caledon remains a safe and thriving place to live, work, and grow."


- Annette Groves

Mayor of the Town of Caledon


"The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs is thankful for the strong partnership we have with this government and their support for the Ontario fire service. The Fire Protection Grant will assist Ontario’s fire departments with ensuring public and firefighter safety during challenging economic times. The 437 fire departments in Ontario, be it career or volunteer, operate 24/7 to keep Ontarians safe; the commitment of this funding is instrumental to that success."


- Deputy Fire Chief Rob Grimwood

President, Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs


"Too many firefighters are impacted by occupational cancer every year, even though they wear their supplied gear and follow strict health and safety protocols. I commend the Ontario government for its Fire Protection Grant initiative, which will allow local departments to purchase specialized washing and drying equipment to properly decontaminate their bunker gear. This is a timely and significant announcement to share with firefighters and their families during this season. "


- Greg Horton

President, Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association


"This funding provides fire departments with vital infrastructure and equipment that will enhance firefighter safety."


- John McBeth

Acting Ontario Fire Marshal


"On behalf of Caledon Fire and Emergency Services, I would like to extend our gratitude to the Ontario government for their generous support through the Fire Protection Grant program. This funding represents a significant investment in the safety and well-being of our firefighters, enabling us to provide PFAS-free coveralls that protect against hazardous exposures during non-fire suppression activities. Thank you for your commitment to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others."


- Dave Pelayo

Fire Chief, Town of Caledon


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