From running into burning buildings to pulling trapped people out of vehicles, there’s no question firefighters have a dangerous job. However, one hazard people don’t often think about is the increased risk of chronic illnesses, such as cancer and heart disease.
A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found firefighters are 14% more likely to die from cancer compared to the general population.
“You have plastic, you have rubber in there, you have all of these chemicals that are burning so any type of fire just throws off all kinds of toxic fumes,” said Fire Chief George Castillo with the Bisbee Fire Department.
Firefighters use air packs; essentially oxygen tanks connected to masks, to protect themselves from the smoke.