Firefighters put their lives at risk to save others. Yet, according to the nonprofit Firefighter Cancer Support Network, cancer is the most dangerous threat to firefighters’ health and safety today. From 2002 to 2019, cancer caused 66% of career firefighter line-of-duty deaths. These tips can help protect firefighters from hazardous smoke, chemicals, and toxins.
1 Reduce diesel exhaust exposure inside firehouses.
Diesel exhaust exposes firefighters to health risks, including lung cancer. A diesel firetruck produces exhaust whenever it leaves or returns to the station bay. The exhaust could enter the firefighters’ living quarters if not properly captured. To reduce exposure, use a diesel exhaust capturing system and keep the bay doors open any time the engine is running..
2 Use full personal protective equipment (PPE) during all phases of firefighting.
Many studies support the proper use of PPE, including a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), to limit a firefighter’s exposure to toxins and cancer-causing agents. “Not using SCBA and wearing soiled PPE were long considered badges of firefighter toughness and bravery,” reported the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) in Cancer Risk in Firefighting. “For many firefighters, those perceptions have been…deadly.” Wear PPE during all fireground operations including during investigations. Harmful off-gassing can continue long after the fire is out.
3 Clean PPE and SCBA early and properly.
Clean all contaminated PPE, including turnout gear, hood, gloves, boots, helmets, and respiratory protection, as soon as possible to prevent cross-contamination. Clean and inspect PPE every six months per NFPA 1851 guidelines or send to a professional verified independent service provider.
4 Control contamination beyond the fireground.
Contaminants can be carried far from the fireground: on hand tools, fire hoses, and fire apparatus. They can be brought into the station, and even into the vehicles and homes of firefighters. Limit cross-contamination by removing contaminates before leaving the scene. Spray gear with soap and water to remove loose debris and dry brush to remove toxins. Once the gear is decontaminated, seal it in a leak-proof bag and place it in an outside compartment of the firetruck. Keep on SCBA air until all on-scene decontamination is complete. At the station, decontaminate the cab of the firetruck thoroughly to remove potential cancer-causing debris. (See NFPA’s Recommendations for Developing and Implementing a Fire Service Contamination Control Campaign.)
5 Wash as soon as possible after every fire.
Firefighters are exposed to environments that can contaminate not only their clothing and equipment but also their bodies. Many chemicals and toxins are rapidly absorbed through the skin during exertion and heat stress. Use wipes as soon as possible to clean body areas where absorption occurs, such as the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands. Shower within an hour after returning to the station.
6 Get an annual medical exam.
Firefighters should start health screenings earlier and more frequently than the general public. Early detection is vital in reducing firefighter deaths. Pre-cancer or stage one cancer typically results in high survival rates.
The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) recommends firefighters keep a personal record to track exposures and incident responses. For free online Cancer Awareness and Prevention Training, contact IAFF at www.iaff.org, or contact a safety training specialist at the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers Compensation-Workplace Safety at SafetyTraining@tdi.texas.gov.