Emergency DECON Services’ mission goes beyond the fire ground; it’s about safeguarding the long-term health of our brothers and sisters in the fire service. As seasoned firefighters, we’re all too familiar with the perils inherent in our duty – not just the immediate dangers of fire, but the insidious threat of cancer linked to occupational exposure.
A Stark Reality
Recent studies by reputable institutions like the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reveal disturbing trends: firefighters face a 9% increase in cancer diagnoses and a 14% rise in cancer-related deaths compared to the general population. These statistics are not just numbers – they’re a call to action.
Proactive Measures at East Meadow and Mastic Beach Fire Departments
Two fire departments, East Meadow and Mastic Beach, are at the forefront of combating cancer risks through comprehensive decontamination strategies.
East Meadow Fire Department has implemented rigorous on-scene gross decontamination and regular laundering of gear. Advanced skin decontamination practices are in place using specialized wipes, and the station is equipped with a safe military-grade decontaminant for thorough cleaning of gear and apparatus. Annual inspections and advanced cleanings of turnout gear and apparatus are conducted by EDS/RedLine Gear Cleaning. Ex Captain Daniel J. Wood emphasizes the critical nature of these practices: “With the alarming rise in cancer cases within the fire service, proactive decontamination and rigorous health monitoring aren’t just best practices – they’re our duty to the men and women who stand on the front lines.”
Mastic Beach Fire Department also utilizes a safe military grade decontaminant for effective neutralization of biological and chemical agents on the fireground as well as back at the station. Their commitment also includes routine laundering of turnout gear along with emergency cleanings by RedLine Gear Cleaning to continuously ensure gear integrity and safety. 2nd Assistant Chief Jason Sharp states, “Effective decontamination is a cornerstone of firefighter safety. Our rigorous cleaning protocols are crucial for reducing carcinogenic exposure, protecting our team’s future as well as their present.”
Five Tips for Safety
A broader approach to safety in fire departments should embrace the following key practices:
Full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Utilization – Firefighters must wear full PPE during all phases of exposure, especially during overhaul operations to protect against carcinogenic particles.
Proactive On-Site Decontamination – Immediate decontamination procedures should be enacted on the fireground, using effective decontaminants to physically remove contaminants from gear.
Regular Gear Maintenance and Cleaning – All gear and equipment should undergo thorough cleanings post-exposure to eliminate carcinogens.
Cab and Equipment Decontamination – Regular cleaning of fire apparatus interiors, SCBA’s and equipment is essential to prevent cross-contamination.
Lifestyle and Health Monitoring – Promoting healthy lifestyle choices and conducting comprehensive annual health screenings specifically designed for firefighting professionals can significantly mitigate cancer risks.
A Call to Action
The battle against cancer in the fire service demands a comprehensive strategy involving advanced decontamination technologies, rigorous health and safety protocols, and a proactive health management culture. Emergency DECON Services is dedicated to leading this effort, ensuring that firefighters have the necessary protections to maintain their health well beyond their service years.
For more information on Emergency DECON Services, contact them at 631-563-2744.
