10/02/2026
EJFR has been awarded $83,636 in federal FEMA funding through the 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. The funding will be used to purchase and install a source-capture exhaust system at EJFR Station 7, located at 7650 Oak Bay Road in Port Ludlow
EJFR submitted its grant application in June 2026, with a strong letter of support from U.S. Congresswoman Emily Randall.
Multiple times per day, fire engines and ambulances are started inside the apparatus bays of EJFR stations, producing diesel exhaust. Once installed at Station 7, the new exhaust system will capture exhaust directly from emergency vehicles, reducing firefighter exposure to diesel exhaust and other harmful contaminants.
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), occupational cancer associated with exposure to diesel exhaust and other carcinogens is a significant health risk for firefighters and has been identified as a leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. Studies conducted around the country have also found residual diesel exhaust particles on walls, furniture, and other surfaces within fire station living areas, contributing to firefighters' exposure throughout their shifts.
Station 7 was built before exhaust capture systems were standardized and is currently the only EJFR career-staffed station without one.
EJFR Lieutenant Caton White, President of East Jefferson Professional Firefighters, said, “Reducing exposure to diesel exhaust and other harmful contaminants in our fire stations is an important part of protecting our members' long-term health.”
Deputy Chief Jason MacDonald said, “Using the firefighter life safety initiatives as a guide, we continue to strive to improve the work environment for our firefighters. Installing this system to match the other fire stations in our district will remove hazardous exhaust fumes and have a direct and immediate positive impact on the health and well-being of the firefighters of East Jefferson Fire Rescue.”
Fire Chief Bret Black added, “It’s vital that we do everything possible to minimize exposures, keep our gear clean and medically screen our firefighters for early cancer detection. Over the past few years, EJFR has taken significant steps in each of these areas.”
EJFR strives to continually identify and pursue additional sources of grant funding for projects that improve service delivery and safety. The annual operating budget continues to be stretched to accommodate rising prices nationwide, requiring continuous fiscal responsibility. Projects such as this exhaust capture system are outside the capabilities of the annual budget but align with the strategic goals set by the Board of Fire Commissioners.
Board Chair Deborah Stinson said, “Our community understands that the effectiveness of their fire and rescue service is reliant upon the people who step up to provide those services. It is for that reason the EJFR strategic plan calls for us to seek ways and means to enhance the well-being of our workforce. This equipment has been out of reach for too long, and now we can all breathe easier knowing that each of our staffed station apparatus bays will provide a healthier working environment.”
Lieutenant White added, “Working for an organization like East Jefferson Fire Rescue, which prioritizes the health and well-being of its employees, has far-reaching benefits for our members and their families. Investments like this are about giving our firefighters the opportunity to serve and return home to the people who count on them.”
The new source-capture exhaust system will be purchased and installed in the coming year and will integrate with the fire service vehicles and exhaust systems used at EJFR’s other staffed stations.
