WDVFD recently received a $13,000 grant from the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant to purchase a NFPA Compliant Gear Washer and Dryer. One of the leading causes of firefighter death is cancer. Long-term exposure to smoke and cancer causing agents increase firefighters' risk of such a disease. Additionally, after fighting fire gear is saturated with smoke and cancer causing agents.
According to the National Institute for Health and Safety (NIOSH), firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancers than the general U.S. population.
The washer and dryer will allow members to decontaminate their gear after firefighting and have it back in service relatively quickly. The specialized washer and dryer will maintain the protective integrity of the gear by using cycles d
esigned to minimize the wear and tear of fibers while still removing carcinogens.
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