A firefighter’s protective clothing, called turnout gear, is essential for operating in the dangerous conditions of a fire. However, the firefighting community has raised concerns regarding the presence of a class of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — some of which have been linked to cancer — in the gear.
Until recently, the public has had little information regarding the specific types, quantities, and location of PFAS in firefighter equipment. But now, a new report sheds light.