When firefighters respond to a major blaze, they’re putting their lives on the line in more ways than one.
That’s because the elements they’re up against often include dangerous pollutants, and the end result has been a higher incidence of cancer in firefighters.
In an effort to make the work environment safer for such first responders, the Florida Legislature has passed a bill that aims to ensure firefighters have the necessary equipment to mitigate exposure to cancer-causing contaminants.
The Firefighter Cancer Decontamination Equipment Grant Program “shall provide financial assistance to help fire departments, including volunteer fire departments, procure equipment, supplies and educational training,” according to the bill.