The state of Michigan is taking blood samples from firefighters as part of a project to study how much exposure they receive to toxic PFAS chemicals. This week, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced the launch of the PFAS in Firefighters of Michigan Surveillance (PFOMS) project, a multi-year $1 million biomonitoring effort to assess firefighter exposure to the “forever chemicals.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Mlive

VIDEO: It was not business as usual at Storm Engine Company No. 2 in Derby. One day after the tragedy in New Haven that cost the life of fallen firefighter Ricardo Torres, who ran into a burning building, saving the lives of two people. It would be his final heroic act. Firefighters in Derby shared with News 8 what drives firefighters to do what most people would not — run towards danger? “Somebody has to answer the call when somebody needs help,” said Capt.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WTNH-TV ABC 8 New Haven

VIDEOS: This weekend's graduation day marks 25 years since a tragic fire in a UNC fraternity house killed five students. The painful date is etched in local memory: May 12, 1996. It was graduation day – and Mother's Day. A smoldering cigarette sent the Phi Gamma Delta house up in flames, killing five students and injuring three on what should have been a happy day of commencement.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WRAL-TV NBC 5 Raleigh

Just 30% of Americans are worried about contracting COVID-19, the lowest fear level recorded by Gallup since the survey firm began tracking the pandemic in April 2020, and 69% of Americans said the pandemic was getting “better” in the U.S. as more Americans get vaccinated and states begin reopening parts of the economy.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Forbes

Autism presents challenges for families as well as those diagnosed with it. It can also create unique complications for police officers, firefighters and paramedics who may not be familiar with how an autistic person may respond to them. “I can tell you, as parent of someone with autism, law enforcement is a bit scary (for someone with autism),” said Yakima police Sgt.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Yakima Herald