The Township of Esquimalt’s firefighters are among the first in BC to be outfitted with new, state-of-the-art turnout gear, free from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
According to the Township, the Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services are the first fire department on Vancouver Island to fully transition to this next generation of protective equipment.
PFAS include thousands of human-made chemicals, which are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily, and they are resistant to heat, grease, and water.
These chemicals can build up in the environment and bodies and are commonly used in products like nonstick cookware, waterproof fabrics, firefighting foams and firefighting gear.
PFAS chemicals are commonly used in creating turnout gear due to their resistance to water and heat.
However, Esquimalt opted to outfit their firefighters in something more safe because of growing scientific evidence that has linked PFAS exposure to increased cancer risk.
It is also scientifically proven that firefighters face elevated occupational cancer rates, with many types of cancer recognized as “presumptive” under provincial legislation. This means they are presumed to be work-related due to the nature of firefighting.
“Cancer remains the leading occupational threat to firefighters,” said Fire Chief Matt Furlot.
“This transition to PFAS-free gear is an important and proactive step to reduce long-term exposure to harmful chemicals, while maintaining the highest standards of protection on the fireground.”
The purchase of this new equipment was first approved by Esquimalt’s town council in November 2024.
Now, the gear has been delivered, though the shipment was delayed as manufacturers worked to refine and test the new materials.
“Council supported this investment knowing it represented both innovation and responsibility,” said Chief Furlot.
“While the delay was longer than originally anticipated, it reflects the care taken by manufacturers to ensure the gear performs at the highest level for our firefighters.”
The gear was purchased through utilization of the 2024 fire department budget, as well as $75,000 from the Township’s contingency account.
