Redmond Fire & Rescue recently received a federal grant that will help the agency improve the safety of firefighters long-term from fire-truck exhaust systems. The district received $252,706.81 as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The total project investment is $277,977.50, which includes the district’s required cost share. The grant will fund the purchase and installation of source capture vehicle exhaust systems at all Redmond Fire & Rescue stations, significantly reducing firefighters’ exposure to carcinogenic diesel exhaust. When connected to a vehicle’s tailpipe, the system reroutes exhaust to the outside air, thereby ensuring a station’s air isn’t contaminated by the toxic fumes.
Firefighter cancer remains one of the most serious occupational hazards facing the fire service. The new exhaust capture systems represent a substantial investment in firefighter health and safety and align with industry best practices for reducing exposure to known carcinogens, a press release detailed.
“This grant is about protecting the people who dedicate their lives to protecting our community,” said Chief Ryan Herrera. “With members of our organization having navigated a past cancer diagnosis, and with the recent passing of Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle from cancer, this funding marks another meaningful step forward in our commitment to carcinogen reduction and improving the long-term health and safety of our personnel.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program exists to protect the health and safety of both the public and firefighting personnel against fire and fire-related hazards. FEMA determined that Redmond Fire & Rescue’s project aligned with the program’s purpose and deserved funding.
The grant award follows strong support from Oregon’s congressional delegation. In a joint letter to FEMA, Oregon’s Rep. Janelle Bynum, Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Jeffrey Merkley highlighted the importance of addressing occupational cancer risks within the fire service and emphasized that investing in station-based exhaust capture systems helps prevent long-term illness, preserve trained personnel and maintain emergency response readiness throughout Central Oregon and the state’s mutual aid network.
“Reducing exposure to diesel exhaust is one of the most effective steps we can take to lower occupational cancer risks within our stations,” Herrera said. “This project reflects our responsibility to ensure that current and future generations of firefighters have a healthier work environment and the protection they deserve.”
As of Sept. 22, FEMA has awarded 1,399 AFGs totaling $264.8 million. FEMA has three fire-grant programs that focus on positively impacting the safety and wellness of firefighters and the public. The grants are competitive, and fire agencies must apply for them and undergo a multi-phase review process, including a pre-screening. According to FEMA, AFGs have been used to help firefighters and first responders obtain crucial equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other necessary resources.
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