Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - They deal with the fire and heat, but the 2016 "Heroes" Firefighter Calendar proved to be Very Hot. Shortly after sales started for the calendar, a record-breaking $300,000 pesos (about $20,000 USD) were raised for Puerto Vallarta's first-responders.

A significant portion of the funds raised have already been deposited to offer nearly three dozen firefighters, lifeguards and paramedics a comprehensive array of high quality training courses that offer an experiential approach to learning.

These specialized courses provide an equal balance of lectures, classes, and hands-on practice in realistic scenarios, to better prepare our first-responders for real-world emergency situations. It should be noted that most of these classes exceed the existing City, State and Federal requirements.

In addition to the educational programs, additional funds will be earmarked to purchase state-of-the-art equipment to better serve Puerto Vallarta's residents and visitors.

"We are thrilled to provide this extensive training to our passionate men and women and appreciate the generosity of the event organizers, sponsors and those who bought the calendars," noted Puerto Vallarta Fire Department Director, Adrian Bobadilla Garcia.

Although our first-responders don't seek recognition for their dedication and devotion to the Puerto Vallarta community, from time to time we have the opportunity to say, "Thank You." We invite you to help us honor them at the Third Annual Spaghetti Dinner Friend-Raiser on Sunday, November 20, 2016 from 3-6 pm. For a $150 peso donation (around $10 USD), you'll enjoy a great meal, a live exhibition, a tour, and lots of great surprises, while supporting our bomberos and lifeguards.

Space is limited, so don't wait! Reserve or purchase tickets online easily and securely at eventbrite.com TODAY!

The firefighters and lifeguards here in Puerto Vallarta seemingly do miracles with nothing. So, in addition to buying a ticket or two, please consider bringing something from their current wish list including ace wraps, antibiotic ointment, bed sheets, canned food, cleaning supplies, crutches, diapers (pediatric and adult), gloves (sterile and non-sterile), over-the-counter medicine, powdered infant formula, toothbrushes and toothpaste, towels, and vitamins. If you cannot join us, please consider making a donation of any size.

For up-to-date information and photos of the first-responder training courses, plus local weather reports, beach advisories and more, follow bomberos.vallarta on Facebook.