By FireRescue1 Staff
HAMPTON, Va. – Firefighters with the City of Hampton’s Division of Fire and Rescue will be the first in the region to wear gear that is aimed at reducing the risk of cancer.
Firefighters were measured earlier this week for the fire protective clothing that is design to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals that are carcinogenic.
“We’ve had a few members that have served for 20-plus years. They retire, and after they retire they are diagnosed with a form of cancer that has probably been job-related,” said Battalion Chief Edward Cantwell III, who oversees department health and safety, in a report from WAVY News.
The city has ordered 270 LION’s RedZone turnout gear. The gear’s design blocks access through the wrists, ankles, neck and core, Cantwell explained.
“[It] reduces up to 98%, (the) chance of having anything come through,” he said.