The carcinogens that firefighters are exposed to present a serious health risk. A NIOSH study found that firefighters had a higher number of cancer diagnoses and related deaths. Because of this, researchers have recommended training and use of protective equipment during all stages of a fire to help reduce the health risks. 

Recent wildfires on the West Coast have brought renewed attention to firefighter safety. In addition to facing danger on a daily basis and battling exhaustion, firefighters face risks from the aftermath of a fire. Firefighter decontamination after a fire is an important step to protect their health and safety in both the short and long term. 

Firefighting is dangerous for obvious reasons, but one of the less obvious risks is exposure to harmful carcinogens. Decontamination on the Fireground of turnout gear and equipment is critical for protecting firefighting professionals from unnecessary exposure to dangerous chemicals. Because of this, turnout gear decontamination should be part of regular training to the extent that it becomes second nature.