“Firefighters put their lives on the line to save others. The heroic work takes a physical and mental toll," FL Gov. Ron DeSantis told firefighters last week.
At the 81st Annual Convention of the Florida Professional Firefighters in Palm Beach Gardens last week, DeSantis signed legislation to further protect those who respond to emergencies, WPLG reported.
The update to Florida Firefighters Occupational Safety and Health Act, according to DeSantis, addresses a number of serious issues including
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Requiring fire departments to buy protective gear that’s free of hazardous chemicals, once it’s commercially available.
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Informing firefighters if their current equipment contains toxic substances.
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Monitoring mental health concerns, including suicide risk, and creating prevention programs.
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Limiting firefighter shifts to 42 hours per week to reduce burnout.
