BLOOMFIELD, NJ — The Bloomfield Fire Department is taking measures to ensure its personnel are healthy and prepared to remain on the job for many years to come. This year, the Fire Department is participating in the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ “Firefighter Safety Stand Down” from Sunday, June 16 through Saturday, June 22. The program includes webinars, lectures, and safety quizzes. But the department is getting a head-start beginning with a free wellness exam which took place earlier today.
“Today, all Bloomfield Firefighters were offered access to extensive wellness exams today, with screenings including allergy testing, blood pressure, BMI, neuropathy, vascular circulation, kidney function, thyroid screenings, and more,” said Mayor Michael Venezia. “I would like to commend the department’s commitment to promoting the safety and wellness of our dedicated employees.”
The 2019 Safety Stand Down focuses on the recommendations in the Lavender Ribbon Report for reducing occupational cancer risks. This follows recent leadership and team building workshops for Firefighters and an eight hour course focused on the four pillars of functional fitness: physical fitness, rest and recovery, hydration and nutrition.
“Firefighters, like law enforcement officers, put their lives on the line everyday, but each of these dedicated individuals accept the risk to serve our community,” said Director of Public Safety Samuel DeMaio. “I would like to commend Fire Chief Venezia for his efforts to continually promote safety on and off the job for his staff.”
Today’s free wellness exam was provided by Healthexcel Cardiology Associates, of South Plainfield, in the Bloomfield Fire Department Headquarters on Franklin Street. Breakfast, lunch and healthy smoothies were provided for department personnel.
“During the coming week, we are placing a renewed emphasis on health and wellness education for the benefit of our Firefighters and their loved ones,” said Fire Chief Louis Venezia. “With some basic health personal care and frequent screenings, our members should have a higher measure of assurance for their long-term health.”
