EV and lithium-ion battery fires leave toxic residues. Learn why traditional cleaning fails—and how updated decon protects firefighters from hidden exposure.

Learn how to interpret PFAS lab results in turnout gear, identify high-risk gear, and take action to reduce firefighter exposure and contamination.

Simple daily habits—like showering, gear storage, and using wipes—can reduce firefighter cancer risk. Learn how to build a safer decon culture.

By: Emergency Technical Decon Team Cancer is now the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters. While awareness has grown, many departments still lack a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes—especially when it comes to toxic gear contamination. Building a cancer prevention plan isn’t just about policy; it’s about culture, consistency, and accountability. Here’s where to start: 1. Establish …

Contaminated gear spreads toxins through fire stations. Learn how secondary exposure risks affect crews—and how to prevent them with proper decon.

Helmets, hoods, and base layers trap toxins too. Learn why full gear decontamination is critical to firefighter cancer prevention and NFPA 1850 compliance.

Summer heat boosts chemical absorption in firefighters. Learn how sweat, contaminated gear, and poor decon raise cancer risks—and how to fight back.

Base layers, straps, and helmet liners trap toxins too. Learn why full PPE decon is critical for firefighter health—and often missed in standard cleaning.

Clean turnout gear shows recruits and veterans that health matters, supporting firefighter retention, safety, and department culture.

By: Emergency Technical Decon For decades, firefighters returning from calls with soot-streaked gear were seen as symbols of grit and experience. But today, we know that lingering contaminants, especially carcinogens like PFAS, can be just as dangerous as the flames themselves. As awareness of occupational cancer has grown, so too has the need for effective gear decontamination. The shift from …