Swan Lake, NY – January marked Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, and the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire continued its Countywide commitment to protecting firefighter health through education, prevention, and proactive safety measures.
As part of its ongoing Health and Wellness Program, the Bureau hosted a specialized training, Firefighter Contamination Reduction and Cancer Prevention, at the County training center in Swan Lake. The class focused on increasing awareness about occupational cancer risks and equipping firefighters with practical strategies to reduce exposure both on scene and back at the firehouse.
“I am proud to support our Cancer Awareness Initiative through our Health and Wellness Program,” said John Hauschild, Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety/Fire Coordinator.
In addition to training efforts, Deputy Fire Coordinators and County Fire Investigators participated in a Cancer Decontamination Bag Program funded through New York State Office of Mental Health CARES UP grant. These decontamination bags contain essential tools designed to reduce exposure to harmful contaminants and support long-term health and safety practices.
Jill Holland, Sullivan County Division of Public Safety Health & Wellness Coordinator, emphasized the importance of moving beyond awareness.
“Awareness matters. It can’t stop there. We have to turn awareness into action by building prevention into everyday practice. Decon early, handle gear correctly, and make clean habits part of the culture we pass down,” said Holland.
The Sullivan County Bureau of Fire extends sincere thanks to Environmental Decon Services, Detect Together, and Fire Protection Specialist Tim Graves for their continued support and commitment to firefighter health and safety.
Through training, equipment support, and partnerships, the Bureau remains dedicated to reducing occupational cancer risks and ensuring firefighters have the tools and knowledge necessary to protect themselves throughout their careers.
