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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis toured the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Training Facility. The CFO surveyed live firefighter and paramedic training and received a brief regarding post-storm relief and rescue efforts following Hurricane Milton, including Urban Search and Rescue assets. These assets included swift water boats, high-water vehicles, wave runners, and more.

CFO & State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, "Each hurricane season, Florida's first responders and firefighters step up with courage and selflessness to protect Florida’s communities. These heroes are often the first on the scene, putting their lives on the line to conduct rescues, provide critical aid, and help families rebuild after the storm passes. Today, I was honored to tour the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue training facility, where these heroes learn the life-saving skills needed to protect our communities and conduct Urban Search & Rescue training missions in preparation for storms. The dedication, hard work, and resilience they demonstrate—especially in the face of disasters—are nothing short of inspiring.

"As Florida's State Fire Marshal, I'm proud to stand with these men and women who tirelessly serve our state in its most challenging moments. Florida remains committed to doing all we can to support our first responders and firefighters. We will continue to ensure they have the resources, training, and equipment they need to safely and effectively carry out their essential duties. Thank you to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Kennedy and his entire team for their service to our state."

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Chief Patrick Kennedy said, “As the residents of Palm Beach County recover from Hurricane Milton, our firefighters remain ready to serve and provide assistance where necessary. This readiness is demonstrated by the recovery tools and our mobile assets that allow access to hard-to-reach areas during disasters. I appreciate the CFO visiting Palm Beach County today and touring our training facility to see the great resources we have available to serve the residents in our area. The CFO is a great advocate for Florida’s firefighters, and we are lucky to have him in our corner.”