Programs

Cardiac Wellness

Heart disease is a leading cause of death among firefighters, and the Greater Tucson Fire Foundation (GTFF) addresses this issue by providing ultrasounds and other cardiac screenings for at-risk firefighters, particularly those over 45 years old. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of heart disease in this group, including high stress levels, insufficient sleep, and poor nutrition habits.

  • GTFF not only focuses on detection through cardiac screenings but also actively works to prevent heart disease.
  • They fund initial certification and ongoing education for firefighters to become Peer Fitness Trainers (PFTs).
  • PFTs receive advanced training in nutrition, rest, and physical conditioning, enabling them to offer valuable health advice to their colleagues.
  • The funding for PFT training varies annually based on regional needs, ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $10,000 as necessary.

This multifaceted approach helps ensure firefighters are not only screened for heart disease but also educated on maintaining good health to mitigate their risks.

Our Programs

Our Impact

Cancer Prevention

When firefighters sign up for their careers, they know many of the well published risks the career choice carries. However, few realize the extent of the cancer risk until well after they have started their careers.

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Cardiac Wellness

Heart disease is a leading killer of firefighters. The Greater Tucson Fire Foundation has provided ultrasounds and other cardiac screening for at-risk firefighters.

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Mental Health

A healthy mind is just as important as a physically fit body. Therefore, the foundation has worked to remove the barriers to receiving quality mental health care from culturally informed providers.

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Peer Fitness and Injury Prevention

The Fire Foundation’s Peer Fitness and Injury Prevention Program support the physical health of our Firefighters. The Fire Foundation continues to provide fitness training and education for Firefighters throughout Southern Arizona.

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Firefigheters Beyond Borders

Launched in 2013 by Greater Tucson Fire Foundation’s Board of Trustees and Patty Vallance (of blessed memory), the Firefighters Beyond Borders program connects our Firefighters in Arizona with the Firefighting community in Israel to support one another in times of need.

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HERO Program

Hardship can strike at a moment’s notice, and firefighters are no different. That’s why we created the Helping Emergency Responders Overcome (HERO) program to lessen the economic impacts of acute medical hardship.

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Useful External Links

Safeshift

NFFF

Mental Health Providers

Fire Agencies

GTFF Archives

911 Sculptures

TOPCU

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