Mesa Fire Department describes expanded cleaning of helmets and SCBA packs to reduce cancer risk

At the March 17 study session the Mesa Fire Department described new cleaning and decontamination measures intended to reduce firefighters' exposure to carcinogenic residues.

"As we're going through cancer mitigation and cancer risk reduction, we found that in the SCBA packs and on the helmets that we have not cleaned in the past...that still emits fumes and still emits toxins," the department chief told the council, explaining that cleaning helmets and SCBA packs is part of an effort to lower cancer risk for members. The chief said the cleaning program is being paid for with grant dollars and cited on-scene decontamination practices.

Council and staff discussed practices the department now uses: on-scene decon (spraying and cleaning before leaving a scene), having multiple gear sets so soiled gear can be washed, and removing packs from vehicle cabs and compartments to limit vapor and residue exposure. The chief also referenced studies and industry guidance noting residue on helmets and packs can re-release toxic gases if heated on later calls.

Mayor Freeman and other council members, several of whom said they have firefighting experience, asked whether the contaminant is residue attached to equipment and whether studies support cleaning; the chief attributed the concern to residual carcinogens on gear and packs and described the department's expanded cleaning regimen.

The transcript records the department describing the steps and funding approach; the study session did not include formal policy adoption on the item.