Vancouver Fire Rescue receives first set of PFAS-free bunker gear

Oct. 24, 2024, Vancouver — Vancouver Fire Rescue Services is delivering 137 sets of new PFAS-free turnout gear to firehalls across the city this week.

These deliveries will be the first of 443 sets of PFAS-free turnout gear which will be delivered by the end of the year.

“This is one important step of many that Vancouver Fire Rescue Services has taken to reduce the impact and risks to firefighters’ health,” said Fire Chief Karen Fry in a press release. “I am super proud that we continue to lead cancer prevention initiatives in the fire service and are also providing our staff with the best protective gear in VFRS history.”

Vancouver Fire Rescue Services and the City of Vancouver announced on April 12 they would transition all current gear to PFAS-free alternatives.