The Stephens City Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company is getting $94,285 in federal funds for a new exhaust removal system at its fire station.
Such systems may reduce the risk of cancer among firefighters.
“For those not familiar, this system attaches to the exhaust of the apparatus and prevents, or greatly reduces, the exhaust gases and particles from escaping into the apparatus bays where it is deposited on surfaces and structural firefighting gear stored in lockers,” Stephens City Fire Chief Timothy Vaught said in statement to town officials. “Health studies have shown that this exposure over time contributes to the cancer rate in first responders. This system will aid us in the endeavor to lower first responder exposure to carcinogens.”
Vaught said planning has already begun on the installation of the new system at the station, which is located at 5346 Mulberry St.