Building Wildfire Smoke Response Training in Montana
GrantID: 1264
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Wildfire Smoke Response Training in Montana
Montana's vast and varied geography presents unique challenges when it comes to environmental health, particularly concerning the health effects of wildfire smoke. With an average of over 100 wildfires annually, the state experiences severe air quality issues, particularly during the dry summer months. Service members stationed in or returning to Montana are at heightened risk for respiratory issues due to wildfire smoke exposure, prompting a crucial need for tailored training programs that address these specific health challenges.
Service members, especially those engaged in active firefighting or who frequent outdoor training exercises, confront the significant dangers posed by smoke inhalation. The respiratory issues associated with smoke exposure can have immediate and long-term health effects, complicating both performance and quality of life. Furthermore, the lack of awareness regarding the dangers of wildfire smoke can lead to inadequate self-protection measures, putting service members at further risk.
To combat these significant health threats, the proposed funding will develop and implement specialized training focused on recognizing and managing smoke-related health issues among service members in Montana. This initiative will include in-person workshops and an array of online resources, ensuring accessibility regardless of duty location. Topics will cover the physiological impact of smoke inhalation, techniques for assessing air quality, and practical approaches to mitigating exposure.
The training aims to empower service members with critical knowledge and incident response skills, enhancing their readiness for outdoor operations during wildfire seasons. Emphasizing both prevention and education, Montana’s initiative aligns with the state’s commitment to safeguarding the health of those who serve by providing them with competency-based training that is directly applicable to their experiences.
Furthermore, by establishing these training protocols, Montana will not only improve health outcomes for its service members but also develop a framework for addressing similar challenges in other regions prone to wildfires. This strategic approach can help ensure that personnel are adequately prepared for the unique environmental challenges posed by Montana’s dynamic landscapes, ultimately enhancing their operational effectiveness and resilience.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
