SEBRING, Fla.- Today, Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia announced over $5 million in funding to Florida fire departments. This funding supports the improvement of firefighter safety and training to help protect their communities.

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “As State Fire Marshal of Florida, I am committed to the safety of our firefighters and the communities they serve. By investing in these fire departments, we are strengthening their ability to respond quickly and effectively when lives are on the line. Whether it is new equipment or better training, my goal is to make sure firefighters have what they need to do their job to the best of their ability.”

Florida Fire Chief Association President Trip Barrs said, “The CFO knows how important firefighter safety is. The awards ensure that firefighters have access to the resources they need to do their job. This is crucial to strengthen emergency response capabilities.”

Sebring Fire Chief Robert “Bobby” Border said, “Firefighters risk their lives to protect the people and property in our communities. This funding is a major step forward in protecting Floridians. We are grateful to CFO Ingoglia for recognizing and supporting the needs of local fire departments like ours.”

Okeechobee Fire Chief Earl Wooten said, “I want to thank the CFO for his leadership and commitment. We proudly stand with him and his mission to reduce the risk that first responders face every day.”

The Department of Financial Services awards funds through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Equipment (FCDE) Grant Program to provide financial assistance to help fire departments purchase equipment, supplies, and educational training to mitigate exposure to hazardous, cancer-causing chemicals.

Additionally, the CFO awarded funds appropriated in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget to support infrastructure improvements and equipment upgrades. These investments help ensure that Florida fire departments have the tools and facilities to respond rapidly and safely to emergencies. The awards include Highlands County Lake Placid Fire Station, Okeechobee Public Safety Improvements, Okeechobee County Fire Rescue, and the Sebring Fire Department Aerial Ladder truck.

Awards made through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Program

• Okeechobee County Fire Department - $19,599.75
• Sebring Fire Department - $7,497

Awards funded in the FY 2025-2026 Budget:

• Highlands County Lake Placid Fire Station - $500,000
• City of Okeechobee Public Safety Improvements - $2,000,000
• Okeechobee County Fire Rescue Station #5 - $1,000,000
• Sebring Fire Department Aerial Ladder Truck - $1,500,000