FIREFIGHTERS; OUR MANDATE

Studies show that firefighters have a significantly increased risk of cancers and other serious illnesses compared to the general population, due in large part to their exposure from hazardous chemicals found in smoke, hazmat calls, and even from their own gear, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS - 'forever' chemicals). These toxins are seeping through the skin, particularly the head & face, scalp, hands and groin area, and are passed on through surface transfer. Further, the rate of dermal absorption increases by 400% for every 5 degree increase in skin temperature.

As a result of this exposure, Cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty death among Firefighters and the World Health Organization’s International Association of Research for Cancer (IARC) has declared firefighting a cancer-causing profession (categorized as ‘Group 1 – Carcinogenic in Humans’).  

In 2022, 75% of the Firefighters added to the International Association of Fire Fighters’ (IAFF) Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial wall died from occupational cancer, and many believe this to be higher. 75%.

Our mandate at SOOTSOAP is simple - to CHANGE THE STATS.