The Oviedo Fire Department has earned the prestigious Gold Helmet Department designation from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) which is a recognition reserved for departments that demonstrate exceptional commitment to firefighter health and safety.
The Gold Helmet honor is awarded to fire departments that enroll at least 50% of their active firefighters or a minimum of 300 members in the National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer. The NFR is the largest national effort ever undertaken to study and reduce cancer risks among U.S. firefighters.
Through the registry, NIOSH collects data to better understand the link between firefighting activities and cancer, helping identify ways to protect firefighters from occupational exposures that can increase risk. Participation is voluntary and open to all active, retired, and volunteer firefighters nationwide.
“Firefighters face unique risks every day,” said Oviedo Fire Chief Michael Woodward. “By participating in the registry, we’re helping advance the research needed to protect those who protect our community.”
The Oviedo Fire Department is proud to be the first department in Central Florida to receive this Gold Helmet designation, highlighting its proactive leadership in safeguarding the long-term health of its members.
