Protection and Prevention Tips

Wear full PPE and use SCBA throughout the incident, including overhaul.
Wash and remove visible soot from PPE on scene
Use cleansing wipes to remove soot from the head, neck, jaw, throat, underarms, and hands

Shower thoroughly and change clothes as soon as possible after an incident
Clean all PPE and decontaminate the apparatus’s interior
Keep turnout gear out of living quarters
Fit-test SCBA and turnouts to ensure proper fit to reduce risk of exposures*
- *Ill-fitting gear can potentially lead to prolonged exposure to carcinogens, this often disproportionately affects women and smaller individuals
Use PPE during training exercises and be mindful of potential exposures if you are an instructor for a training
- Avoid using engineered wood products in training burns

Report exposures online as soon as possible (peronline.org)
Never take PPE or contaminated clothes/gear home or even leave it in your car
Reduce alcohol and tobacco intake
Use sun protection to reduce UV exposure outdoors, including sunscreen, long-sleeved clothing, and hats
Prioritize adequate, uninterrupted sleep when possible
Stay physically active – having a strong cardiovascular and respiratory system can help reduce risk
Eat nutritious foods that are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
Get annual medical exams and consult your medical provider on cancer screenings that are right for you – early detection saves lives
Learn more about living a healthy lifestyle to reduce cancer risk: Lifestyle and Cancer Prevention | American Cancer Society