The grant is part of a nationwide program funded by FEMA whose primary goal is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical organizations.

Parts of the AFG proceeds will be used to purchase new Lifepak Defibrillator/Monitors to replace our current monitors. The new Lifepaks have updated capabilities that equip MDFR with ability to integrate non-invasive monitoring of oxygen, methemoglobin (detection of certain drugs), carbon monoxide, as well as web-based technology that provides first responders with the ability to share critical patient data with receiving hospitals allowing MDFR to continue administering our cutting edge ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction “Heart attack” (STEMI) Awareness Program to Miami-Dade County Residents.

Additionally, the grant will enhance the health and safety of MDFR’s firefighter personnel and the public by retrofitting 41 fire stations with sole source capture exhaust systems allowing the department to eradicate over 99% of emissions from our diesel operated apparatuses and help in our ongoing efforts to “go green”.

The last part of the AFG is allocated to one of the department’s greatest needs for an Advanced Driver Training Program. This will to help improve our emergency response capabilities and reduce the risk to our community by providing our firefighters with a driver simulator and competency test leading to a State Certification. MDFR will then offer the program to other fire departments.

“With the AFG award, we have the opportunity to make significant improvements in several critical areas,” said MDFR Fire Chief William Bryson “This grant allows us to have cutting edge tools and training to be able to provide the residents of Miami-Dade County with the highest level of service.” 

For more information, please contact MDFR’s Public Affairs Bureau at (786) 331-5200.