Archive for May 19th, 2024

Cancer in the Fire Service – PFAS-free gear

Excerpts from wgal.com:

If you look through the aisles of the Fire Expo Show (in Harrisburg, PA), there are vehicles, equipment, and tools — including gear that does not contain “forever chemicals” that have been linked to cancer and other health problems.

Turnout gear with PFAS was among the items featured, reflecting a shift among some fire companies and departments to begin examining the of use of such equipment. Some studies have shown that forever chemicals are linked to a number of health problems and cancer and are found in widely used fire gear.

San Francisco is eyeing a ban on PFAS in firefighting gear, and some believe federal, state, or local entities may move to similar moves. The chemicals have been removed from many products, though widely used gear in the U.S. is still layered with them.

However, some worry mandates could negatively impact small and volunteer departments due to the high cost.

thanks Martin

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Clarendon Hills Fire Department news

Excerpts from patch.com:

Clarendon Hills is looking to build a new fire station, in part, because public buildings downtown may deter commercial development.

The village has identified the site of the police station and public works department in the 400 block of Park Avenue as a possible place for the new fire station. The site’s impound lot could be used for the new fire station because a third party now handles impounded cars.

Moving the fire department could spur downtown development, and a campus for the three departments could allow them to share rooms for reception, workouts, conferences, and training.

To make the project a reality, the sale of the current fire station’s land alone may be enough to offset the cost of the new building. The village also could use money from the downtown tax district to pay for moving costs.

On Monday, the village board is expected to vote on hiring an architect for $7,500 to do a feasibility study on building a new fire station.

thanks Martin

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Lemont Fire Protection District news

Excerpts from LEMONT FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT MINUTES OF MARCH 21, 2024 – REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

CHIEF’S REPORT:
Deputy Chief Peksa stated the next budget may include the purchase of a new dive squad. 
Deputy Chief Truffa informed the board the chassis for one of the new ambulances is ready, and that we will be taking possession of another ambulance April 8″.  

thanks Martin

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