Over the past few years, fire departments have come a long way with their efforts to combat firefighter cancer. Even with all of the efforts in place, the hazardous work environment that you encounter still presents several challenges.
I would like to applaud the efforts of firefighters and organizations who have fought for funding preventive measures, had cancer presumption laws passed, and enacted policies and education in their department. Still, there is much work to take on to slow the leading cause of death in today’s firefighters.
As I reflect on this year, eight of my friends who are current or retired firefighters were diagnosed with job-related cancers. Three firefighters I have known over the years succumbed to job-related cancers, with one being diagnosed just a few weeks before his death and one who valiantly fought cancer on and off for six years.
In this supplement, we look at how the city of Mesquite, TX, made a significant investment in their firefighters’ safety by updating and purchasing new equipment for the firefighters, the stations and their apparatus. They are setting the example on how communities need to take care of their firefighters and to create a healthier space for the next generation of firefighters.
Some of the steps don’t need a large financial investment but, rather, a personal commitment to the health of your brothers and sisters. A reminder to don a facepiece before entering a structure for overhaul or at a vehicle fire is a mere few words or a nod and point to prevent the inhalation and absorption of carcinogens. Those subtle reminders are what led firefighters to start wearing seatbelts in many departments after years of education on the importance of that life-saving effort.
I would like to thank the authors of the various articles and the survivors who share their stories of how their life changed. Thank you to our sponsors for their continued support of cancer awareness and prevention.
Stay safe,
Peter Matthews
Firehouse Editor-in-Chief
