Being a firefighter can be harmful to one’s health, and this comes as no surprise to anyone. Firefighters are asked to work in hazardous environments that are never exactly alike and are probably foreign regarding specifics because of structural layout and fire conditions.

Knowing this should inspire those with the ability to do so to take as much action as possible to protect firefighters even though the level of unpredictability can be high. But through study, proper equipment, and healthy choices, the unnecessary risks can be eliminated and the rest minimized. Firefighter wellness must also include mental as well as physical programs that improve firefighters’ resilience to the by-products of the job.

Smoke is fuel. It comprises particulates, aerosols, and gases (solids, liquids, and gases). Besides the fuel, the smoke is very harmful to firefighters’ health with respect to the cardiovascular system and as a carcinogen. Besides carbon embers and ash, the particulates will most likely contain some form of asbestos as well as silica. Both have been proven to be cancer-causing. The gases generated by the contents found in most new buildings also contain carcinogens such as benzene. Working in high-heat environments causes additional health hazards. Providing protection for firefighters involves more than getting the best possible equipment. There must be training and education to go with well-written policies and procedures that must be followed.

LEADERSHIP

Leadership in an organization will determine the course the department will take. Those chiefs and officers who truly put their people first will set the proper example and do what is necessary to establish the proper culture. That will include clear direction on risk management and risk taking. This is not to imply that departments must be only defensive if they want to protect firefighters. People sign up for the job with the understanding that there will be certain risks. These should be calculated and based on savable situations. Besides the obvious need to risk a lot to save people, there must be calculated actions that manage risks where there is value worth saving. Sometimes the least risky action for firefighters is putting the fire out.

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Back to the personal protective equipment (PPE) for firefighters. There needs to be an understanding of what the ensemble can protect against and what is beyond the gear’s capabilities. Starting with the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), all members, from top to bottom, must know what SCBA will protect and where risks are presented. There is no question that SCBA have greatly improved with each new generation. But, as with any tool, knowledge of its capabilities is important. SCBA will protect the respiratory system but will not prevent absorption of toxins through the skin. The SCBA, outside of the face piece, is often the least frequently cleaned and decontaminated part of the PPE. The actual polycarbonate face piece is subject to failure at lower temperatures than the rest of the unit. The face piece can have small cracks that are not easily visible. Members must be educated on the benefits and weaknesses and the proper way to che