Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month: Reduce Exposure Where It Counts

January is Firefighter Cancer Prevention Month—a critical reminder that cancer prevention starts long before the call comes in. From gear selection to care, cleaning, and education, the choices departments make today can directly impact long-term firefighter health.

In this Ricochet Roundup, we’re sharing practical updates and resources designed to help you reduce exposure, stay compliant, and make informed decisions with confidence.

Prevention isn’t a single action—it’s a system. And it starts with informed decisions. 

NFPA 1850 (1851) 2025 Edition Training & Certification Exam — Now Available

The updated NFPA 1850 (1851) 2025 Edition standard is here, consolidating and modernizing PPE selection, care, maintenance, and retirement guidance. To support departments, officers, and PPE managers, Ricochet now offers NFPA 1850 (1851)-aligned training and certification exams—fully updated to reflect the new standard.

Why it Matters

Ensures teams follow current PPE care and use requirements
Supports cancer-reduction practices through improved contamination control
Delivers documented training aligned with the latest NFPA guidance

Access Training & Certification Exam

After putting Ricochet non-PFAS turnout gear through real-world, high-heat burn conditions, his conclusion was clear. The gear exceeded expectations.

Chief Quinn’s Perspective: From Skeptic to Advocate

With more than 50 years in the fire service, Chief Kevin Quinn had every reason to be skeptical of PFAS-free turnout gear. Like many fire service leaders, he’d heard the concerns—reduced durability, compromised performance, lack of comfort.

So, he did what firefighters do best: he tested it himself.

After putting Ricochet non-PFAS turnout gear through real-world, high-heat burn conditions, his conclusion was clear. The gear exceeded expectations. His takeaway: PFAS-free doesn’t mean performance-free. In fact, it may be the future of firefighter safety.

Read Chief Quinn’s Full Review

This month—and every month—prevention starts with informed decisions. If you have questions about NFPA 1850, non-PFAS options/transitioning, or PPE care best practices, our team is here to help.