The Ontario government will spend $30 million over three years to help municipal fire departments reduce the risk of cancer among firefighters, officials said Thursday. The Fire Protection Grant, to be split among 374 departments, is earmarked for purchasing specialized washing and drying equipment that removes contaminants and installing better air purification and ventilation systems to limit exposure to hazardous chemicals, the government said.
“Firefighters put service over self each and every day,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Today’s announcement is another concrete step to make sure these heroes get the care, resources and support they deserve.”
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said the money is “directly supporting the health of countless firefighters,” who face a higher rate of cancer diagnoses due to fire-related toxins. Provincial data indicate that 50 to 60 firefighters die each year in Canada from cancer, with about half of those deaths occurring in Ontario.
Local officials said the funding will give fire services what they need to safeguard their crews. “This funding is a significant step forward in ensuring Caledon remains a safe and thriving place,” said Annette Groves, mayor of the Town of Caledon.
David Piccini, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development, said the investment complements other provincial measures, including expanded coverage for occupational cancers and funds for training facilities, mental health supports and illness prevention.
“This is a timely and significant announcement to share with firefighters and their families,” said Greg Horton, president of the Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association. Rob Grimwood, president of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, said the partnership with the government “will assist Ontario’s fire departments with ensuring public and firefighter safety during challenging economic times.”
Acting Ontario Fire Marshal John McBeth and Caledon Fire Chief Dave Pelayo also welcomed the funding, with Pelayo saying the new equipment will “protect against hazardous exposures during non-fire suppression activities.”
The grant is part of the 2024 Budget: Building a Better Ontario, which outlines measures to help fire services respond to major incidents and urgent situations, the government said.
