Funding to helps firefighters battle occupational risk for cancer

Officials from the County gathered with MPP Allsopp, Scott Hayes, Fire Protection Adviser at the Office of the Fire Marshal, and fire service personnel to celebrate the funding.

The municipality’s firefighter cancer prevention program got a $164,450 funding boost this week from the Ontario government.

“County firefighters are on the front lines keeping us safe everyday. Our firefighters need the tools and equipment to stay safe and healthy now and in the future,” said Mayor Steve Ferguson.

The municipality will use the funds to purchase a second automated equipment decontamination machine which removes hazardous substances from the equipment worn by firefighters. The machine will be installed at the Consecon fire station, helping reduce the time required to clean equipment.

Additional plans include the purchase of hose washing machines, new respiratory protection equipment, and spare personal protective equipment to ensure firefighters can promptly return to service following a response to an emergency incident.

“The World Health Organization recently reclassified firefighting to its highest level of occupational risk for cancer,” said Tim Kraemer, interim fire chief. “This development reinforces just how important it is that our equipment is clean and free of hazardous substances. We applaud the Government of Ontario’s action to protect firefighters and the doubling of funds in 2026. On behalf of Prince Edward County Fire and Rescue, I want to express my gratitude to the provincial government for investing in the health of our firefighters.”

In the first year of the grant program, the County received more than $82,000 to support the purchase of an automated equipment decontamination machine that was installed at the Picton fire station. The municipality also purchased two powered air purifying respirators and respirator face pieces.

“This $164,450 investment through the Ontario Fire Protection Grant will help ensure that Prince Edward County Fire and Rescue firefighters have access to well-fitting, modern safety equipment and cleaning technology,” said Tyler Allsopp, Bay of Quinte MPP.

Officials from the County gathered with Allsopp, Scott Hayes, Fire Protection Adviser at the Office of the Fire Marshal, and fire service personnel to celebrate the funding.