Andover Fire Win Grant For Gear-Washer To Reduce Cancer Risk

ANDOVER, MA — Andover Fire Rescue was awarded a $6,400 grant by the state to help purchase equipment that cleans gear and reduces firefighter exposure to cancer-causing materials. The Governor Charlie Baker administration awarded 75 departments with "Washer-Extractor Equipment Grants," the department said in a release. Firefighters regularly come into contact with carcinogenic chemicals, like smoke.

“A firefighter may face multiple hazards in the course of a day, including exposure to toxic cancer causing chemicals,” said Chief Michael Mansfield in a statement. “Andover Fire Department appreciates the emphasis that the Baker-Polito Administration is making on firefighter cancer prevention in making these grants—not only in Andover, but across the Commonwealth.”

The National Fire Protection Association sets a national standard for care and cleaning of firefighter gear. It lays out the type of machines that should be used, and all washer-extractors purchased with this grant will meet the standard, according to the release.

“These grants will help local departments purchase critical gear to support firefighters as they put themselves in harm’s way to protect the Commonwealth’s communities,” Baker said in a statement. “Helping to protect them from the physical and occupational hazards of the job is a key way we can show our appreciation for the dedicated service of our first responders.”

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.