Episode 181: Episode 6–11 – FF Jason Burns – The PFAS in Our Bunker Gear

Cancer and other dangers we face in the fire service are not new topics, but they have “morphed” a bit. Initially, it was though that only those who worked the “Pile” after 9|11 were being affected. Then, the various carcinogens and other toxins from the benzene products burning were found to be hurting us as well. Then, came the news that they very bunker gear we wear to protect ourselves while we perform our often-dangerous jobs, could be leaking carcinogenic toxins into our bodies. With manufacturers denying that either, no carcinogenic products in the turn-out gear, or they changed their tune to,”…it might be there, but it can’t hurt you,” an organized offense was needed. 

One of the leaders for that call is my guest, Jason Burns. Literally, thrown into the presidency of his local IAFF union, he was forced to bury two colleagues, both in their thirties, within two years of his election. And Jason wanted to learn more about cancer in the fire service. 

He did extensive homework to learn as much as possible. As did many of us, he was introduced into the “PFOA in Our Bunker Gear” action group on social media and he learned a great deal from the members and research down by those independent from manufacturers. He was instrumental in the passing of Resolution 28 at the 2021 IAFF annual conference. Listen as he shares his difficult and painful journey to where he is today!

Check out the video webcast on our YouTube® channel, 5-Alarm Task Force Corp, or tune in to the audio podcast on your favorite podcast platform. 

Photo Courtesy of: USGS.gov