Bridgeport, CT – City of Bridgeport officials announce that thirty-eight Bridgeport Fire Department (BFD) members were trained to administer COVID-19 vaccines during four training classes offered at BFD headquarters and facilitated by the Bridgeport Health Department, with Lieutenant Varanelli, on January 30th and January 31, 2021.



Mayor Ganim stated, “I want to thank our Fire Department for stepping up.   Qualified BFD members volunteered to support the health department to administer the vaccine to eligible registrants.  We appreciate their efforts as we increase the number of people in place to help get the vaccine to our residents.” 



Of his firefighters and their commitment, Chief Thode added, “It’s in a firefighter’s DNA to want to help.  I am so proud of the members who have stepped up to serve the public.  Whether it’s a fire, tragic accident, medical emergency, or in this case – a virus, Bridgeport firefighters are in the life saving business.”



On December 7, 2020 the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health granted licensed Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) authorization to administer the COVID-19 vaccine after successful competition of a vaccination training program. Training included an online training module and a hands-on class at Bridgeport Fire Headquarters for BFD members that both volunteered and have active status as an EMT or Paramedic. Today, trained BFD members successfully assisted City efforts as volunteer vaccinators at Central High School. 



Trained Fire Department members will continue to serve as volunteer COVID-19 vaccinators under the guidance of the Bridgeport Health Department. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit bridgeportct.gov/getvaxbpt or click here.