We're Fighting More than Flames on the Fire Ground

Approaching the topic of cancer prevention in the fire service seems to be a lot like purchasing life insurance or writing a will; it is something we recognize the need for, and yet cringe at the thought of having to do something about it. To be completely honest, I had little desire on my own to dig deeper into the subject. It took my wife expressing her concerns before I took a serious look at how my daily practices could be affecting not only my own of risk of a cancer diagnosis, but exposing my family to harmful agents as well. I owe it to both my wife and two daughters to consider how I approach this topic.

The IAFF recently hosted a webinar highlighting several studies that have shown firefighters are at a greater risk for numerous cancers than that of the general population. In the case of testicular cancer, it is upwards of two times greater. This probably isn't breaking news for you. It is something that most in the fire service have been told for some time. The difference is that we now have have supporting studies with specific evidences. 

Rather than remaining ignorant, take some time to educate yourself on the reality that fire, collapse, and heart attacks are not the only things killing firefighters. In 2014, 56% of LODDs were the direct result of occupational cancer. 

What this really means is firefighters are not doing enough to protect themselves from cancer-causing agents.

Known carcinogens, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are present in nearly every fire we respond to (this includes wildland fires in the open air). A recently released study out of Oregon shows they remain present well beyond the stages of burning, and will last long into overhaul. It is important to note that carcinogenic vapors can still be present despite being what appears to be below acceptable limits on our 4-gas meters. 

Research done by the University of Arizona showed that it isn't enough to switch to N95 masks, or even APR cartridges, when performing overhaul, as each of these are only particulate filters. Carcinogenic vapors were only being stopped through the proper use of SCBA.

Thankfully, SCBA usage has dramatically decreased the threat of inhalation exposures as was so common place for brothers in the past. The question then becomes, how are we being exposed. Research studies are finding that the primary method of our exposure to cancer causing agents is through absorption.  

Bunker gear is porous, and therefore, allows the transfer of toxins directly onto our skin. This remains true even when every effort is made to properly don all PPE. To compound the issue, skin's permeability increases with temperature and for every 5° increase in skin temperature, absorption increases 400% (FCSN White Paper). Obviously, a rise in skin temperature is a given when operating in gear inside super-heated environments.

There needs to be a dramatic shift in our mindset concerning our post-incident actions. Larry Petrick, the Deputy Director of Occupational Health and Safety for the IAFF, makes the point that after working in a fire we are not just dirty, we are contaminated.

If you are like me, what you really want to know is what steps need to be taken reduce your chances of getting cancer. Here are a few simple ideas that are being suggested by researchers to make that happen:

•  Wear a SCBA through the overhaul process.

• Immediately upon the removal of bunker gear, even if just for rehab, use wipes on your face, neck, and hands as skin layers are thinnest in these areas.

• Put your gear through gross decon prior to leaving the fire scene. This includes brushing off large particles, and giving it a quick rinse.  

• Take a hot shower as soon as possible after working a fire. Needless to say, scrub with soap multiple times. This includes putting on a fresh set of clothes, and running what was worn under the gear through the wash.

• Never bring bunker gear into the living and sleeping areas of the fire station. Further, as best as possible, do not take gear, towels, uniforms, and any other clothing worn in a fire home with you. Wash these items at the station.

• If you can't avoid taking your contaminated items home, don't store them inside of your vehicle. These items should be moved into a garage or exterior closet. Placing gear inside a plastic tote is preferable to a gear bag as they do a better job of sealing contaminates.

• Include gross decon of the apparatus cab in the routine of cleaning following a fire. These same harmful particulates should not be around every time you get in the apparatus. Why risk exposure even during the menial things like going to the grocery store?

• A University of Alberta study showed that mild exercise following a fire will re-open the skin's pours, and allow the body to sweat out some of the toxins/carcinogens that have entered the body. One department in Ontario even installed a detoxification sauna to help accomplish this task. Click Here to check it out. 

• Stop tobacco usage both in the form of smoking and chewing.

• Wear sunscreen. 

Info and suggestions for prevention from the Firefighters Cancer Support Network can be found in the FCSN White Paper
To access the IAFF webcast, visit www.iaff.org/ALTSwebcast