During the Warren County Board of Supervisors Work Session on December 3, 2024, significant discussions centered around enhancing fire and rescue cancer protections and the establishment of an Operational Medical Director (OMD) for the county's emergency services.

Chief Myattico presented a crucial initiative aimed at improving the safety and health of fire and rescue personnel. The proposal includes acquiring secondary sets of personal protective equipment (PPE), specifically turnout gear, for all full-time staff. Currently, firefighters are limited to a single set of gear, which poses health risks after exposure to hazardous materials during emergencies. The initiative seeks to provide each firefighter with a custom-fitted secondary set stored at their duty station, allowing for immediate replacement when their primary gear requires laundering. This change is part of a broader cancer protection plan, which also includes increasing the number of gear washers and drying cabinets to expedite the cleaning process.

The funding for this initiative totals approximately $365,335, sourced from federal funds allocated for cancer protection efforts. Chief Myattico emphasized the importance of this initiative not only for the health of firefighters but also for their quality of life, as it alleviates the burden of dealing with soiled gear at home.

In addition to the PPE initiative, the board discussed the need for a dedicated OMD, a position mandated by state regulations to oversee EMS operations. The current OMD is transitioning away from the local hospital group, prompting the county to seek an in-house solution. The proposed contract for OMD services would provide 20 hours of oversight per month, split between in-person and remote work. This arrangement aims to enhance medical oversight, training, and policy development within the fire and rescue system, ultimately improving service delivery to the community.

The board expressed strong support for both initiatives, recognizing their potential to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness and safety of Warren County's fire and rescue services. As these proposals move forward, they reflect a commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of first responders while ensuring robust emergency medical oversight.