Firefighter Cancer
The cancer resource page features news, information, videos, podcasts and feature articles about this massive health issue facing the fire service.
After battling cancer and enduring costly treatments, Westport Firefighter Paul Spennato advocates for early detection to protect his fellow firefighters
Fire service leaders must focus on data, not emotion, when make their case for funding, staffing and more
Free screenings would begin in a firefighter’s fifth year of employment, but concerns remain over funding, as the legislation lacks state financial support
Data linking exposures to fire incidents can be critical to helping firefighters get the cancer support they need
The new Columbus Division of Fire station includes a separate changing station to protect firefighters from carcinogens and an alarm system that reduces sleep interruptions
Study shows chemical exposure is higher while on-duty, and increased with the number of fires fought
The Clinton Fire Department hopes to train six more firefighters to perform swift-water rescues with the new equipment
The Waxahachie Fire Department is asking for prayers, support for the family of Lancaster Firefighter Brandon Peterson
Research has shown exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can impact human immune systems, and may also impact antibody responses to vaccines
The Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act recommends additional research into PFAS in PPE and alternatives to PFAS foam
Zoneton Fire Protection District Chief Robert Orkies, 55, was a more than 36-year fire service veteran and had been diagnosed with cancer shortly before contracting the virus
How firefighters can limit exposure to diesel exhaust emissions and diesel particulate matter
Zoneton Fire Protection District Chief Rob Orkies was diagnosed with cancer shortly before he contracted the virus
Funds will be used for ongoing research to determine how to better protect volunteer firefighters from cancer-causing agents
Deputy Chief David Windrow relays his experience overcoming cancer and explains how leadership can support members during such a vulnerable time
How to develop a comprehensive firefighter rehab program and build your response team
Wellesley Firefighter Joanie Cullinan was awarded for her contributions to raising awareness about occupational cancer; the organization she volunteers with received a $5,000 donation from the foundation
How a simple question – “Can you paint our engine pink?” – led to a powerful campaign for firefighters
Portage Station No. 2 includes gender-neutral locker and shower facilities, on-site training space and “clean” rooms to help prevent cross-contamination
In addition to one-time payments upon diagnosis, firefighters will also receive $12,000 per year for medical expenses
Personal reflections on diagnosis, support systems, treatment, recovery and the path ahead
The Mesquite (Texas) Fire Department focused on turnout gear additions and cleaning, SCBA scrubbing and exhaust removal
Detailing the diagnosis process, plus the ‘lightbulb’ moment about underestimating the number of toxic fires we face
Hackensack Firefighter Rich Kubler, 53, died from stage 4 liver cancer on Saturday after more than 20 years of service
Mansfield Firefighter-Paramedic Michael McLaughlin, 39, died Saturday after a long battle with the disease
Akron Fire Lt. Russell Brode, former president of IAFF Local 330, is remembered as an advocate for firefighter safety
Tucson Fire Department Captain Jacki deHaro had battled an aggressive form of lung cancer
Lavender Ribbon Report details how to mitigate exposure to carcinogens through proper decontamination practices
In this episode, host Marc Bashoor speaks with Fire Chief (ret.) Todd LeDuc about the top three health issues facing firefighters: cardiac issues, cancer and behavioral health challenges
Capt. R.A. Furiosi of the William Walker Hose Company died from cancer, and was honored by local first responders
Fire officers must be aware and vigilant of both issues as we provide professional and caring leadership in our departments
The IPSDI app will allow firefighters a simple way to document scene exposure, and have it available during workers’ compensation claims for occupational health conditions
MOST POPULAR
- IAFF takes on PFAS in firefighter gear by hiring lawyers, releasing documentary
- IAFF, Metro Chiefs issue joint statement about turnout gear PFAS risks
- Decon alley: 5 steps to doffing firefighter PPE before rehab
- Firefighter develops gear dryer to reduce cancer risk
- Fundamental changes needed to address turnout gear contamination