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Firefighters to get healthy |
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Written by Administrator
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Wednesday, 03 January 2007 |
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Some U.S. fire departments are using federal money to expand programs aimed at getting fire fighters healthier. In Cranford , New Jersey, Fire Chief Leonard Dolan III has ordered his professional fire fighters to get medical tests and health advice, using?federal money to pay for it. "Sudden heart attack is a major cause of death in our business," said Dolan. "To be physically fit so you can go from a resting state to a great deal of physical activity means you need to be in shape."? Many fire departments have been taking the health of their workers more seriously in recent years, and much is due to the federal Assistance to Firefighters (FIRE Act) grants?awarded to pay for?new facilities and equipment,?although some departments also use them for fitness programs. The grants "haven't just improved health. They've saved lives through medical screenings," said Pat Morrison, health and safety director for the Washington, DC-based International Association of Fire Fighters.
(Web Link)
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