Esquimalt council approves purchase of non-PFAS bunker gear

Nov. 29, 2024, Esquimalt, B.C. — Esquimalt council in British Columbia has approved the replacement of firefighters’ turnout gear with non-PFAS alternatives.

On November 25, the council voted unanimously to approve the replacement of firefighters’ primary turnout gear with non-PFAS alternatives through utilization of the existing 2024 fire department budget and $75,000 from the township’s contingency account.

“Fighting fires already has inherent risks—the gear firefighters wear should not add to the dangers of the job,” said councillor and acting mayor Andrea Boardman in a press release. “Choosing to support this motion as an easy decision for council and we are happy to support Esquimalt Fire Rescue in this endeavour.”