Knowing how danagerous the exposure to carcinogens at the workplace can can be, South Milwaukee Fire Chief Joseph Knitter has always taken the long-term health of his firefighters seriously. Knitter’s brother worked at a barrel company and was exposed to many chemicals over the years before falling victim to cancer. And firefighters are 14 percent more likely to have a cancer-related death than the average citizen, according to the National Fire Protection Association. So his department receiving a donation of 35 particulate-barrier hoods, which are designed to reduce exposure to carcinogens released during fires, was a pleasant surprise. “It’s heartwarming to know other people care,” Knitter said.