DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – Dallas Fire-Rescue is working to implement new policies to help protect firefighters from occupational cancer caused by carcinogen exposure.
This firefighters has the disease and said it took him by surprise.
“My neck got so swollen that I had to go to the emergency room. I don’t normally ask myself ‘why me?’ questions but…’why me?” he said.
According to WFAA TV, the department has seen 31 worker’s compensation cases since the mid-2000s.
A 2016 CDC study shows that firefighters are at a greater risk of developing occupational cancer.
The Dallas Fire Fighters Association said at least 58 retirees are fighting cancer and six members have died. The association also said the department is requesting almost $5 million in the upcoming budget to pay for a second set of bunker gear for each firefighter.
Dallas Fire Rescue said the changes will start with firefighters cleaning their gear and showering immediately after calls.
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