LAKELAND, Fla.- Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia awarded over $186,000 in funding to support three local fire departments. These agencies include the Auburndale Fire Department, the Frostproof Fire Department, and the Lakeland Fire Department. These awards were made through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant Program and the Firefighter Assistance Grant Program.

Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said, “While others run away from danger, firefighters run towards it to keep Florida families safe. As State Fire Marshal, it is my top priority to ensure that we are supporting Florida’s firefighters with the resources they need, whether they are on the job, or off-duty. When a Floridian is in need, a firefighter is there to help, and through these grant funds, our firefighters will be better equipped to respond to any emergency.”

Trip Barrs, President of the Florida Fire Chiefs Association, said, “CFO Ingoglia continues to show his dedication to Florida’s firefighters by awarding money to local fire departments across the state. This funding allows for firefighters to better serve the citizens in their communities who rely on them every day, while also ensuring their own protection from cancer causing chemicals.”

Florida Professional Firefighters Regional Vice President Tim Pearson said, “The money awarded today helps protect our firefighters from harmful chemicals and strengthening our firefighter infrastructure. Florida’s firefighters appreciate CFO Ingoglia’s continued support for the men and women who work every day to keep our communities safe.”

Auburndale Fire Chief Brian Bradway said, “These grants help our firefighters continue to do what they do best- saving lives and property. Thank you, CFO Ingoglia, for your unwavering support for local departments like ours and recognizing our need for better resources.”

Frostproof Fire Chief Jerry Riner said, “We appreciate CFO Ingoglia’s commitment to strengthening fire and emergency services across the state. This investment not only impacts firefighters, but it also gives peace of mind to our residents knowing that we are prepared to respond swiftly to emergencies.”

Lakeland Fire Chief Douglas Riley said, “The money awarded today allows us to continue to serve our community with the highest level of professionalism and preparedness. We are grateful for CFO Ingoglia for his continued support of our firefighters.”

The Department of Financial Services (DFS) provides funds through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant Program. The funding is aimed towards protecting the health and safety of firefighters by providing the necessary education, supplies, and equipment to reduce exposure to hazardous, cancer-causing chemicals.

Funding is also provided through the Firefighter Assistance Grant Program which is meant to improve emergency response capabilities and enable fire departments to provide more effective firefighting, emergency medial, and rescue services to their communities.

Awards made through the Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Grant Program

• Auburndale Fire Department- $12,313.25
• Lakeland Fire Department- $34,575

Awards made through the Firefighter Assistance Grant Program

• Frostproof Fire Department- $139,986.32