Share:
for immediate release
June 3, 2025
Miami Beach Fire Department Awarded State Grant for Cancer Prevention Equipment
— New equipment reduces health risks by thoroughly decontaminating firefighting gear —
Miami Beach, FL – Miami Beach Fire Department has been awarded a grant through the Florida Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Equipment Grant Program, funded by the State of Florida and approved by the Division of State Fire Marshal within the Department of Financial Services.
This grant will allow the department to purchase two Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) extractors, specialized machines designed to remove hazardous, cancer-causing chemicals from firefighter gear. The funding supports ongoing efforts to reduce firefighter exposure to harmful contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, and polyfluoroalkyl substances — all of which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer among firefighters.
Firefighters are exposed to dangerous substances during emergency responses, vehicle extrications and even training exercises. Proper and consistent cleaning of gear is critical to reducing these risks. The new equipment complies with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1851 standard, which outlines strict guidelines for the care and maintenance of protective ensembles.
Each extractor includes a barcode scanning system that tracks the cleaning history of each PPE item. Wash cycles are recorded and securely stored in the cloud, allowing for easyaccess and audit-ready reports to ensure compliance and safety.
“This grant directly supports our mission to protect those who protect our community,” said Fire Chief Digna Abello. “With the help of the State Fire Marshal’s Office, we’re taking another important step in protecting the health and well-being of our firefighters.”
Miami Beach Fire Department is dedicated to keeping our firefighters safe by investing in new tools and safe practices that help reduce health risks on the job and support long,healthy careers for those serving on the front lines.
###
To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).
