Blog
January 15, 2025
By: Hayden Hughes, Senior Sales Manager
As we reflect on 2024, it’s evident that this year has been transformative for the fire service. The strides made in addressing emerging hazards, refining decontamination practices, and improving firefighter safety are remarkable. At Emergency Technical Decon, we’re honored to contribute to this progress, particularly in the realm of clean, protective PPE and cutting-edge decontamination solutions.
One of the highlights of the year was the 2024 Urban Fire Forum (UFF), where fire service leaders gathered to tackle the most pressing challenges facing firefighters. The initiatives and insights from the forum have been instrumental in guiding the future of our industry—and we’re proud to stand at the forefront of meeting these needs.
Key Achievements in 2024
- Tackling Lithium-Ion Battery Risks
The increased use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has brought new hazards to firefighting, including thermal runaway events, toxic gas releases, and reignition risks. The UFF’s position paper on LIB decontamination outlined actionable steps to mitigate these dangers, such as specialized training, advanced decontamination protocols, and improved PPE.
How We’re Leading: At Emergency Technical Decon, we’ve developed solutions designed specifically to address LIB-related challenges. From cleaning systems capable of removing LIB contaminants to PPE built to withstand chemical exposure, we’re equipping firefighters to handle these modern threats with confidence.
- Redefining “Clean”
Contamination control took center stage in 2024, with the “Defining Clean” initiative leading the charge. This effort emphasized the need for regular and advanced cleaning to remove harmful particles and carcinogens from firefighter gear. It’s a vital step toward ensuring the long-term health of firefighters.
Our Commitment: We’ve embraced this challenge by introducing technologies that surpass traditional cleaning methods. Our advanced systems not only remove contaminants but also set a new standard for what clean really means in the fire service.
- Prioritizing Health and Safety
Firefighter health became a rallying cry this year, as leaders called for higher standards, better training, and more robust PPE. The message was clear: firefighters deserve the very best in protection and care.
Our Vision: At Emergency Technical Decon, we’ve dedicated ourselves to creating the next generation of PPE and decontamination solutions. By collaborating with fire departments and industry experts, we’re ensuring our innovations meet the real-world needs of those on the front lines.
Moving Forward Together
As we look back on 2024, we’re inspired by the progress made by these advancements, but realize there is more work ahead. At Emergency Technical Decon, we’re committed to building on this momentum. Whether through enhanced PPE, advanced decontamination systems, or ongoing collaboration with fire service leaders, our goal is clear: to protect those who protect us.
Firefighters face enough risks in their daily work—contaminated gear shouldn’t be one of them. The advancements of 2024 remind us of what’s possible when we work together toward a shared goal. Emergency Technical Decon will continue its promise in providing cleaner, safer solutions for the fire service.
To the firefighters we serve, thank you for your trust. Together, we’re shaping a future where safety and health are never compromised. For more information on how Emergency Technical Decon can assist your department in the new year, be sure to reach out to our team today at www.etdecon.com.
