Firehouse Cancer Supplement – Survivor Story: Firefighter Eric Jones
Eric Jones has been a firefighter with the East Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Company on Long Island, NY, since 1985. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a regular physical. He is now cancer free.
Jones shares that when he first learned of his cancer diagnosis, he was devastated, but the support he received from his two families—his firefighting family and his family at home—was phenomenal. He shares some of what he has learned about occupational cancer risks: “Since my diagnosis, I’m aware of the steps firefighters have to take to reduce their risks. These steps include washing your gear, including your hood; washing your hands following every call; taking steps to reduce cross-contamination; showering after every fire; and, of course, using your breathing apparatus. What I want out of future generation firefighters is to understand that this occupation poses great risk, and I want you to take steps to minimize those risks.”
Firehouse thanks our Keystone Sponsor, MSA, and all our Cornerstone Sponsors for helping fund this project to better inform you about one of the most dangerous parts of the job.
