AFG grant is the largest awarded to AFR in recent years
August 19, 2024 -- For the first time, Aurora Fire Rescue will provide National Fire Protection Association-compliant physicals for first responders, in addition to comprehensive cancer screenings, through a newly awarded federal grant. The grant totaling more than $420,000 is provided under the Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program and is the largest of its kind awarded to AFR in recent years.
“Our members are the heart of Aurora Fire Rescue, and it’s critical that we keep that heart healthy,” said Aurora Fire Chief Alec Oughton. “I am thrilled that this AFG grant will enable us to provide physicals that meet NFPA 1582 standards and comprehensive cancer screenings.”
Cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighter health and safety today, according to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Cancer caused 66 percent of all career firefighter line-of-duty deaths from 2002 to 2019, according to data from the International Association of Fire Fighters. Heart disease caused 18 percent of career line-of-duty deaths for the same period.
AFR has experienced two line-of-duty deaths caused by cancer, two cancer-related medical retirements and a medical retirement caused by a serious cardiovascular issue. Several AFR members have been treated for cardiovascular-related issues and many are currently battling cancer on the job.
While AFR provides entry-level physicals for all suppression personnel as a condition of pre-employment and offers annual physicals and immunizations through its insurance provider, the grant funding enables AFR to provide more comprehensive physicals and cancer screenings aimed at early detection and prevention of major diseases before they reach catastrophic levels.
“Early detection allows for earlier treatment and an increased survivability rate,” said Dr. Eric Hill, Medical Director for AFR. “NFPA-compliant physicals include hands-on examinations of multiple organ systems, including a comprehensive lab analysis. Each member will have the added benefit of advanced imaging of internal organs, cardiopulmonary testing, diet and nutrition analysis, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness analysis and personalized wellness plan. These proactive screenings will translate into fewer medical retirements, reduced absenteeism and improved overall operational readiness to better serve our community.”
This year’s AFG grant is the largest awarded to AFR in recent years. Past AFG grants have supported training programs and enabled the department to purchase thermal-imaging cameras and vehicle extrication equipment.