Tuesday January 6, 2026 | ESQUIMALT, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services has received new PFAS-free firefighter turnout gear.
This marks a significant milestone in firefighter health and safety, says Fire Chief Matt Furlot.
The Township of Esquimalt says their fire department is the first on Vancouver Island to fully transition to this next generation of protective equipment, which removes per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, from firefighter gear.
About PFAS:
PFAS chemicals have historically been used in turnout gear for their water and heat-resistant properties.
However, growing scientific evidence has linked PFAS exposure to increased cancer risk. Firefighters already face elevated occupational cancer rates, and many cancers are recognized as presumptive under provincial legislation, meaning they are presumed to be work-related due to the nature of firefighting.
“Cancer remains the leading occupational threat to firefighters,” said Fire Chief Matt Furlot.
“This transition to PFAS-free gear is an important and proactive step to reduce long-term exposure to harmful chemicals, while maintaining the highest standards of protection on the fireground,” says Furlot.
Gear purchase approved by council:
n November 2024, Esquimalt Council approved the purchase of PFAS-free turnout gear through supplemental funding, demonstrating strong leadership and support for firefighter health, safety, and workplace wellness.
At the time of approval, Council acknowledged the emerging science around PFAS exposure and the importance of adopting safer alternatives as they become available.
The delivery of the gear was delayed as manufacturers continued to refine and test the new materials to ensure they met or exceeded national safety and performance standards. These refinements were necessary to balance the removal of PFAS with durability, thermal protection, and operational performance required for structural firefighting.
“Council supported this investment knowing it represented both innovation and responsibility,” said Chief Furlot. “While the delay was longer than originally anticipated, it reflects the care taken by manufacturers to ensure the gear performs at the highest level for our firefighters.”
Leadership for the region:
Issued during this first week of Firefighters Cancer Awareness Month, Esquimalt says this initiative underscores the municipality’s “commitment to cancer prevention and proactive action to reduce occupational health risks for firefighters”.
With the arrival of the new gear, Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services continues to demonstrate leadership in firefighter safety, cancer prevention, and progressive fire service practices. The department anticipates that this transition will also contribute to broader adoption of PFAS-free gear across the region in the coming years.
===== RELATED:
- Funding boost for west shore fire departments (March 14, 2025)
- Canada takes action on PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ (March 5, 2025)
- BC Greens seek fire department gear upgrade for better health protection (March 15, 2024)
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