Children across the world often aspire to become firefighters when they grow up. The profession, more of a vocation, is heroic and noble, saving thousands of lives every year. But are we as a community doing enough to protect these heroes from occupational hazards?
During duty, firefighters face frequent exposure to smoke and firefighting foam. Time and again, studies have linked such chemical exposure to cancer. Recent research by the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health found alarming prostate cancer statistics among firefighters. The diagnosis rate is 1.21 times higher than that of the regular population in America.
The heartening news is that technological advancements have started making a positive difference. Here are three ideas stakeholders should champion to keep people in this field healthier.
#1 Switching to Safe Firefighting Foam
A serious risk to firefighters’ health comes from exposure to polyfluoroalkyl substances. Also called PFAs, they are common constituents of firefighting foam. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have connected PFAs to unusual epigenetic modifications like DNA methylation. These alterations can cause cancer.
A case in point is Class B Aqueous Film-Forming Foam, a standard pick for fires at airports or military bases. AFFF has film-forming tendencies that make it effective at extinguishing hydrocarbon-based fires. However, this foam contains PFAs – “forever chemicals” that don’t break down. These chemicals contaminate the air and water around us over time.
Prostate cancer is a noted concern of PFA exposure. But these substances also raise your vulnerability to liver, kidney, or testicular tumors. Besides cancer, they may aggravate liver damage and fertility issues. Your immunity can also take a hit.
It is true that AFFF manages fires and saves lives. However, a safer option has become essential for the community’s safety. The US Department of Defense is working on a fluorine-free foam that will be as powerful without PFAS. Some companies are also exploring biodegradable soybean foam.
How Can Firefighters Lower Their PFA Exposure?
Implementing green alternatives to AFFF will take time and effort. For instance, authorities remain unsure if these options can endure high temperatures. In the meantime, firefighters must stay vigilant.
You can consider filing a firefighter foam lawsuit if these toxic chemicals have already affected you or a family member. Proactive action will help you manage the medical costs of challenging health conditions.
To avoid further exposure, the International Association of Fire Fighters has outlined some helpful precautions. It advises team members not to transport gear in the passenger seat of personal vehicles. They should ensure it is in a sealed container. Also, routine measures like handwashing and replacing legacy gear are imperative.
You may have faced PFA-related health damage if you live near airports or factories. Contaminated water near petroleum plants is also a valid concern. Understanding your options for help is imperative in these circumstances. TorHoerman Law suggests undergoing health screening to gauge exposure. You can then explore grievance redressal options in your industry.
#2 Specially Formulated Soap for Decontamination
Wearing PPE, or personal protective equipment, is mandatory for firefighters. But exposure to harmful chemicals needn’t follow the respiratory route. The International Fire and Safety Journal notes how the skin can be a receptacle for toxins. Areas like your neck and hands can be especially sensitive.
One such group of toxins is polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. PAHs are common in fires. In fact, cooking and domestic heating may also generate these chemicals. PAHs can cling to the skin and gear. So, they become more dangerous if a firefighter skips changing their gear.
An effective way to reduce this risk is through soap and detergent formulated to remove PAHs. Charcoal-based products and surfactants can both be good options. Check that they have barrier properties so that your skin does not get damaged.
New research published on Frontiers recommends using a much higher concentration than the recommended amount of detergent. Some studies have found that doing so can up the cleaning efficacy to more than 90%.
The situation suggests the urgency of improving hygiene standards in firefighting centers. Adequate staffing will help firefighters have time between incidents to change their gear. They can also clean soot and foam from their skin.
#3 Technology for Mental Health Tracking
Firefighters are often the first responders for high-risk incidents. Facing traumatic phone calls and helping distressed families cause immense stress over time.
A 2024 Scientific Reports study found firefighters at risk of PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder. Over time, it can bring on musculoskeletal problems in the bones and joints.
The condition can worsen because of the onset of depression and burnout. It lowers the quality of life, causing anguish to the families. It can cause long-term disabilities that interfere with your earning abilities.
One innovative solution to mitigating this health risk is through tracking technology. Some tech pioneers in the US are developing systems to gauge the risk levels of first responders. These tools will use metrics, like the number of long shifts, to predict mental stress. The system can also judge vulnerability due to a pre-existing health condition.
Based on the insights, firefighters can access support groups and receive peer check-ins. The technology will guarantee privacy to let responders find help without judgment.
Despite the heroic connotations of the term, firefighters are susceptible to many health concerns. As a responsible society, we must start extending better support to community helpers. It warrants researchers, regulatory bodies, and the government to work together for change.
