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Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month
Every day across Canada, firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. But beyond the flames, there is another risk: occupational cancer.
Research shows that firefighters have a higher risk of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths compared to the general population. Toxic chemicals released during fires, along with substances found in firefighting foams and gear, can be absorbed into the body through skin contact or inhalation.
To combat these risks, the Conception Bay South Fire Department has implemented best practices for decontamination and safety. Policies like “Shower within the Hour” and on-scene decontamination procedures are critical steps to reduce firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens after a fire.
The Conception Bay South Fire Department has introduced a range of initiatives to improve safety and reduce exposure to harmful toxins, including:
- On-scene decontamination policies and procedures.
- Decontamination bags with clean clothing, gloves, and flash hoods for firefighters to use after a call.
- An apparatus-mounted decontamination shower for on-scene use.
- Decontamination buckets stocked with industrial bags, wipes, soap, and brushes.
- Particulate-blocking flash hoods to prevent the absorption of toxins.
- Upgraded bunker gear with advanced protective technology.
- A medical surveillance program to monitor firefighters’ health over time.
These measures ensure that firefighters have the tools and resources they need to protect themselves and reduce long-term health risks.
Continued Investment in Firefighter Safety
The Town of Conception Bay South remains committed to firefighter safety and will continue investing in their protection. In 2025, the Town is introducing several new resources to support the fire department, including:
- A new Rescue Response Vehicle for specialized operations.
- Ongoing enhancements to the VHF radio system and integration with the Provincial P25 Public Safety Radio Network, improving communication and interoperability with other emergency services.
- The creation of a new management position.
- Updated decontamination procedures, including future retrofitting of one of the bay floors into a designated decontamination hazard zone.
- A new Pumper/Rescue apparatus ordered, which will go into service to improve emergency response capabilities.
These investments reflect the Town’s ongoing commitment to reducing risks and providing firefighters with the tools they need to do their jobs safely.
Call to Action
As we mark Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage residents to take a moment to show appreciation for the brave individuals who serve as firefighters. Whether through a simple thank-you or by learning more about the risks they face, we can all play a part in supporting those who protect us.
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