VIDEO: Everyday firefighters like Jarrett Beshears of Plano Fire-Rescue suit up in their bunker gear to fight fires. But as they are saving lives, they could be putting their own at risk.
"It's what we sign up for, that's what part of the job is, we risk our lives to help people," said Beshears.
According to the CDC, cancer is the leading cause of death in firefighters. Their risk of getting cancer is 9% higher than the general public.
"It's come to light with us more in the past 10 years, cleaning our gear more, getting two sets of bunker gear for us after we have a fire because we're still having those carcinogens coming off our gear," said Beshears.
Starting March 16, he will walk at least 100 miles in four days—dressed in full bunker gear. His journey will take him on a loop through Corinth. Every step marks a stride in awareness for firefighter occupational cancer. It's called the Walk For The Red.