Fire Rescue Professionals of Alachua County IAFF Local 3852

05/29/2026

Congratulations Chief Theus on your retirement. We wish you all the best!!

05/22/2026

Congratulations Bernie on your Retirement!!

Congratulations on your Retirement, Wayne “Bernie” Bernoska!

After 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Orlando, we celebrate the retirement of a true legend in the fire service.

Bernie’s impact reaches far beyond Orlando. Through his tireless work with both Local 1365 and the Florida Professional Firefighters, he has helped shape the future of the fire service across our state and has been a steadfast advocate for firefighters and their families. His leadership, passion, and commitment have left a lasting mark on countless careers and lives throughout Florida.

While his accomplishments are many, it’s the relationships he built, the members he mentored, the stories he’s told, and the battles he fought on behalf of firefighters that will define his legacy. The fire service is better because of Bernie, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he has done for our profession.

Thank you for your 25 years of service, your unwavering dedication, and your countless contributions to Local 1365, the FPF, and the City of Orlando.

Enjoy your well-earned retirement, brother.

05/22/2026

Today, Governor DeSantis signed SB 984 (DiCeglie) relating to Firefighter Cancer Benefits into law. 🎉

This legislation ensures that firefighters battling terminal occupational cancer can spend their final days at home with their families without jeopardizing their family’s death benefit.

Beginning July 1, 2026, firefighters and their families will retain access to the cancer death benefit for one year after terminating employment.

Thank you to Senator Nick DiCeglie and Demi Busatta- State Representative for their leadership, and for all the members of the Legislature who supported this important clarification for Florida’s firefighters and their families. Thank you to Governor Ron DeSantis for signing this good bill into law.

This is an important step forward for firefighter families across Florida we were proud to champion. 🇺🇸🚒

05/11/2026

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters urges Florida lawmakers to restore cost-of-living adjustments for law enforcement and first responders' pensions.

05/11/2026

As budget talks continue, Florida’s first responders must remain a top priority. Supporting the men and women who serve our communities is always worth it.

Read my op ed in the by clicking the link below👇

shorturl.at/RSfXm

05/11/2026

For many firefighters, their tireless service has caused damage to their health, and they are no longer able to serve to the fullest capacity.

04/24/2026

When firefighters have your back, it means something!

I’m honored to have the endorsement of IAFF Local 3852.

These are the men and women who answer the call when it matters most, and I’m honored to have their support. I wanted to share their endorsement letter in full below.

“IAFF Local 3852 Endorses Chase Brannan for State House District 10

April 7, 2026

To the Voters of Florida House District 10

On behalf of the members of IAFF Local 3852, the Fire Rescue Professionals of Alachua County, I am proud to formally announce our endorsement of Chase Brannan for Florida State House District 10.

Our organization represents the dedicated men and women who serve and protect the citizens of Alachua County every day. We take our responsibility to support candidates seriously especially those who have demonstrated a clear commitment to public safety, first responders, and the communities we serve. Chase Brannan has consistently shown that commitment through both his actions and his advocacy.

Chase has been a strong supporter of firefighters and emergency personnel, recognizing the critical role we play in protecting lives and property. He has worked to support policies that strengthen public safety infrastructure, ensure proper funding for fire rescue services, and advocate for the health and well-being of first responders. His understanding of the unique challenges firefighters face from demanding working conditions to long-term health risks sets him apart as a leader who listens and takes action.

In addition, Chase has shown a willingness to engage directly with our members, take the time to understand our concerns, and stand with us on issues that matter most. His commitment to responsible leadership and his support for those on the front lines make him the right choice to represent District 10.

We are confident that Chase Brannan will continue to be a strong voice for firefighters, first responders, and the citizens of Florida. IAFF Local 3852 is proud to stand with him and fully supports his campaign for Florida State House.”

Thank you to IAFF Local 3852 for your trust, your support, and your endorsement!

04/08/2026

Congratulations Steve Swan. We wish you a long and rewarding retirement!!

04/06/2026

ACFR doing some great things!!

🚑 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞-𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲

Alachua County Fire Rescue will now carry whole blood on emergency calls, bringing hospital-level care directly to the scene through a partnership with UF Health.

The new Whole Blood Program allows paramedics to give transfusions before patients reach the hospital, helping save lives when seconds matter most.

Why it matters:
🩸 Severe bleeding is the leading cause of preventable death in trauma
⏱️ Every minute counts: early transfusions can dramatically improve survival
🚨 Only about 1% of EMS agencies nationwide carry blood

“By equipping our first responders with the ability to administer whole blood in the field, we are addressing the critical window of time that can mean the difference between life and death," said Fire Chief Harold Theus.

Read more about the initiative: https://tinyurl.com/4aewve4v

03/14/2026

Vice President JD Vance pledged the Trump administration’s continued support for fire fighters at the IAFF’s Alfred K. Whitehead Legislative Conference,