During the month of February the City of Renton Fire & Emergency Services Department, along with UW/Valley Medical Center, holds their annual “Heart Month” community outreach program throughout the city.

The campaign is designed to increase public awareness about heart health and related cardiovascular conditions. Cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and high blood pressure, continue to be our nation’s number one killer.

In support of the program, Renton Fire & Emergency Services received a donation of $1,000 from the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1722. The grant was used to purchase supplies for the Renton Heart Month campaign, which will allow Fire Department crews to test nearly 2,000 residents of the greater Renton community.

Since the Renton Heart Month campaign began eight years ago, more than 49,000 residents of the Renton community have been tested for high blood pressure and high blood sugar. Test results revealed that 2,312 individuals were at a dangerous level for blood pressure, and 661 had elevated blood sugar levels.

Of significant importance in 2013, Renton Fire & Emergency Services crews tested two six-year-old children, who were found to have elevated blood sugar levels. By detecting the elevated blood sugar early, these children can expect to live a long and productive life.

Renton Fire & Emergency Services provides free blood pressure and blood sugar checks year-round at fire stations throughout the city. Residents are encouraged to visit their local fire station to have their blood pressure and blood sugar checked free of charge.