Quincy Moves to Replace Firefighter Gear After Chemical Danger Found

The city council approved a $2. 65 million plan to buy new protective clothing for its 270 firefighters after tests showed that their current gear contains harmful PFAS chemicals. These substances, known as “forever chemicals, ” do not break down in the body and can raise cancer risks. Firefighters have worn the suspect equipment for six years, starting with a purchase in 2019 that was believed to be PFAS‑free. Community leaders and the local firefighters’ union pushed for change, citing cases of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS among crew members.They argued that the cost of new gear is far smaller than the health damage caused by continuing to use contaminated clothing. The council initially delayed the vote, wanting more time to assess how long PFAS‑free gear would last and whether it was truly safer. After discussions, they agreed that the new equipment is necessary to protect firefighters from added chemical exposure while on duty. In August 2024, state law now bars the sale of gear containing PFAS to Massachusetts fire departments. This legislation supports Quincy’s effort and aims to prevent future incidents of contaminated gear across the state.