Our Work
FUNDING PRIORITIES
As Bellevue continues to grow, so too are the increasing demands on our firefighters as they respond to emergencies in the business and shopping districts, neighborhoods, high rises, and lakes. The demands on our BFD firefighters seem to be endless – they must be prepared to respond to hazards, disasters, and medical emergencies while also facing risks to their health and well-being.
While the BFD is well funded, City resources are unfortunately finite. Unfortunately, the breadth and scope of everything BFD handles are hindered by budget limitations for securing needed equipment, tools, and technology beyond the basics.
There are immediate funding needs for items that help keep them and our communities safe, and the community’s support is crucial to fulfill its most pressing needs.
Less than 3% of the fire department’s budget covers the cost of essential equipment, new technology,
and training to help firefighters do their job.
The funding needs were a result of working closely with Chief Dave Tait, his leadership team, and various units to prioritize funding the gear, equipment, and resources that will keep the community safe and the firefighters safe in the line of duty. The BFD’s current funding priorities are listed below.
The Bellevue Fire Foundation is seeking funds for these health, equipment and training projects.
ULTRASOUND CANCER SCREENINGS
Firefighters face a significantly higher risk of developing cancer due to repeated exposure to toxic chemicals, smoke, and hazardous environments. Regular ultrasound cancer screenings are a vital tool for early detection—when cancers are more treatable and recovery outcomes are far greater. These screenings not only save lives, they also support earlier return to work, better long-term health, and reduced strain on families and the department. By funding these screenings, you help provide firefighters with proactive care that honors their service and protects their future.
BATTERY-POWERED HOLMATRO EXTRICATION TOOLS
Seconds matter when lives are on the line. Battery-powered Holmatro extrication tools significantly increase our firefighters’ ability to respond quickly by providing faster patient access during vehicle fires, severe accidents, and entrapments. Recently, Engine 109 responded to a car fire with the driver trapped inside. With the ladder truck delayed due to location and traffic, firefighters relied on older equipment to gain access. While successful, the process took valuable time. A battery-powered combi-tool would have drastically reduced that effort, allowing for quicker extrication and improved patient care when every second counts. Your support can put these lifesaving tools directly on our engines.
PEER SUPPORT TRAINING
Firefighting is one of the most stressful and demanding professions, with constant exposure to trauma, high-risk situations, and the added weight of personal life challenges. When stress compounds, it can lead to missed shifts, traumatic stress, worker’s compensation claims, and long-term health impacts. Bellevue Fire’s Peer Support Team provides timely access to debriefings, counseling, and behavioral health resources, helping firefighters navigate these challenges. With your support, we can fund specialized Peer Support Training that brings the team to CPSE accreditation standards and ensures consistent, high-quality care. This investment strengthens resilience, reduces stigma, and safeguards the well-being of those who protect us.