Montreal Firefighters Face Increasing Health Risks Amid Rising Call Volume
Long-term health risks for Montreal firefighters a growing concern
Ctv NewsImage: Ctv News
A report reveals that Montreal firefighters, responding to over 140,000 incidents last year, face significant long-term health risks, including occupational cancers. The aging population and extreme weather events contribute to the rising demand, prompting calls for better prevention and recognition of health issues.
- 01Montreal firefighters responded to over 140,000 incidents last year, with 60% involving medical emergencies.
- 02More than 350 work-related cancers have been recognized among firefighters in the past 15 years, with over 100 fatalities reported.
- 03New protective gear still contains carcinogenic fire-retardant chemicals, increasing exposure risks.
- 04Quebec recognizes fewer occupational cancers compared to other provinces, suggesting underreporting of health impacts.
- 05Firefighters call for improved prevention measures, screening, and recognition of health risks.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
A recent report highlights the escalating health risks faced by Montreal firefighters, who responded to over 140,000 incidents last year. The president of the Montreal Firefighters Association, Chris Ross, emphasized that the workload is unprecedented, with 60% of calls now related to medical emergencies. Contributing factors include an aging population, chronic illnesses, and extreme weather conditions. Despite new measures aimed at reducing exposure to toxic contaminants, Ross criticized the slow implementation of safety protocols. Over the past 15 years, more than 350 work-related cancers have been documented among firefighters, resulting in over 100 deaths. Dr. Danny Whu, chief medical officer of the International Association of Firefighters, pointed out that exposure to carcinogens is a persistent risk throughout a firefighter's career, exacerbated by modern building materials and synthetic materials that burn more intensely and toxically. The report calls for enhanced prevention strategies, better health screening, and improved recognition of occupational cancers in Quebec, which currently acknowledges fewer cases than other provinces like British Columbia.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The health risks faced by firefighters could lead to increased healthcare costs and impact community safety.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think is the most important measure to improve firefighter health safety?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


