CITY OF CASA GRANDE | STRONGER UNITED

510 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, Arizona 85122
www.CasaGrandeAZ.gov

Contact:

Heather C. Kennedy
Public Information Office
(520) 421-8600 ext. 2530
PIO@CasaGrandeAZ.gov

November 8, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CASA GRANDE FIRE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES GRANT TO ENHANCE CANCER PREVENTION EFFORTS FOR FIREFIGHTERS.

Casa Grande, AZ — The Casa Grande Fire Department is proud to announce it has received a $124,772 grant from the Gila River Indian Community through the Prop 202 grant process. This funding will support the purchase and installation of three Solo Rescue Decon Washers, critical equipment designed to combat one of the most serious occupational hazards faced by firefighters: cancer. 

“This grant represents a significant advancement in the department’s mission to protect its personnel by implementing state-of-the-art cancer prevention measures,” said the grant’s author, Fire Marshal Frank Ricci. “The grant aims to reduce the harmful exposure firefighters face in the line of duty.” 

Firefighters are regularly exposed to toxic substances in conditions such as structure fires, vehicle fires, and other hazardous environments. These contaminants, which cling to SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) equipment, face pieces, hand tools, boots, and helmets, have been linked to elevated cancer risks within the profession. 

The Solo Rescue Decon Washers offer a breakthrough solution, quickly eliminating up to 99% of carcinogenic contaminants from firefighting gear and equipment. Each washer has been designed with advanced safety features, including: 

• Cancer Risk Reduction: By thoroughly removing harmful contaminants from gear, the washers help reduce firefighters' long-term cancer risk. 
• Rapid Decontamination: Capable of decontaminating SCBA equipment in less than 10 minutes, these washers support faster turnaround times for emergency response. 
• Minimized Exposure: The Solo Rescue Decon Washers protect firefighters by reducing direct contact with toxins and carcinogens, contributing to a safer work environment. 

“By using this advanced equipment, we can address critical needs within our department,” said Fire Chief Dave Kean. “The implementation of these decontamination washers will have an immediate and lasting impact on the health of our firefighters and the safety of our fire stations, creating a cleaner, healthier environment for our entire team.” 

The new machines require just 1.6 gallons of water per cycle compared to traditional methods, which typically consume many more gallons per cleaning. This offers an efficient, environmentally friendly alternative that directly addresses the water challenges facing our desert community while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. 

This essential addition to the department represents Casa Grande Fire Department’s ongoing commitment to improving health and safety measures for its personnel. The grant’s support makes it possible to better protect those who put their lives on the line every day, further strengthening the department's capacity to serve and safeguard the community.

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