Cuellar Announces Nearly $340,000 in Federal Funding to Support Physical Exams and Health Screenings for Local Firefighters
Written by admin, Jul 5, 2023, 0 Comments
Courtesy Arturo Olivarez,
The funds will help ensure the well-being of the Laredo Fire Department’s 407 firefighters
Laredo, TX – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $339,031 in federal funding for periodic National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1582-compliant physical exams and health screenings for the Laredo Fire Department’s 407 firefighters. The exams will combine a comprehensive, hands-on physical with a model for early detection and prevention of major diseases. The assessment also includes laboratory testing, ultrasound screenings for early detection of heart disease and cancer, cardiopulmonary testing, and fitness evaluations.
The funds will also pay for any additional testing necessary for sworn personnel, including chest x-rays with 2 views and radiologist review, hazmat cholinesterase, and hazmat heavy metals testing. These exams and screenings are necessary to protect the health and safety of our firefighting personnel.
“Our firefighters risk their lives every day to protect our communities – both life and property. It is essential that we safeguard their health and well-being, both to protect their individual safety and guarantee their efficiency while in the line of duty,” said Congressman Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “There is truly no greater investment than the well-being of our community and those who protect it. Thank you to Mayor Dr. Victor Treviño and Laredo Fire Chief Guillermo Heard for your leadership and unconditional support of our firefighters. And thank you to all our present and retired firefighters for your service.”
“Preventative health programs are critically important in our community, especially in light of our medically underserved environment. I applaud the advocacy and funding attained by Congressman Cuellar to help the City of Laredo Fire Department as a model for improving the health of the department through early detection and prevention,” said Mayor of Laredo, Dr. Victor Treviño.
“We believe that this grant-funded initiative will greatly benefit our firefighters, fire department and in turn our community. Our firefighters are our #1 resource and by investing in their health and well-being, we can enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our operations while fostering a culture of personal care and resilience. This comprehensive occupational physical exam is only part of overall commitment to their well-being,” said City of Laredo Fire Chief, Guillermo Heard.
The funding was awarded through the FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. 10%, or $30,821, of the $339,031 in total funding is a required non-federal fund match provided by the City of Laredo.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is the leading information and knowledge resource on fire, electrical, and related hazards. The NFPA 1582 Standard outlines a comprehensive occupational medical program that will reduce risks and provide for the health, safety, and effectiveness of firefighters operating to protect civilian life and property.
