Fire departments across Maine are implementing the best practices to limit exposure to carcinogens on the job and educate their members about steps they can take to detect cancer early, WCSH reports.
In 2023, cancer accounted for 72% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths, according to the International Association of Firefighters.
The battle against cancer has driven firefighters like Russell Osgood, Ogunquit’s Fire Chief and the Vice President of Education for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, to educate their peers.
Osgood helped develop a nationwide training program that has educated thousands of firefighters across the United States about cancer prevention. A major focus of the training is limiting exposure to carcinogens. The program also highlights the importance of early detection.
Still, a lack of funding to implement best practices and update essential equipment remains an obstacle.
Sleep, Alcohol, and Cancer Prevention: A Playbook for Firefighters
The Airing of Grievances: Your Responsibilities in Preventing a Cancer Diagnosis