On Monday, Dec. 11 and Tuesday, Dec. 12, approximately 30 members of the Wareham Fire Department participated in a cancer screening and diagnostic testing process, performed at the Rosebrook Event Center. 

“I have seen far too many retired and past firefighters being diagnosed with cancer,” said Chief John Kelley. “Firefighting is dangerous, but keeping our people as safe as possible is of paramount importance to me.”

Between 2002 and 2019, cancer caused 66 percent of the professional firefighter line-of-duty deaths, according to the Wareham Fire Department. 

Firefighters are at a far greater risk of developing cancer and other diseases because of exposure to toxic gasses, chemicals and smoke. These screenings are exceptionally important because they allow for prompt treatment which can improve the chances of a successful recovery and reduce the need for invasive interventions. 

In addition to the screenings, the Wareham Fire Department has made many proactive steps to safeguard their firefighters. These steps include cleaning protective gear after exposure to carcinogens with special extractors and dryers designed for cleansing this gear, and the addition of exhaust removal equipment for all apparatus. 

The screenings were performed by United Diagnostic Services LLC. They included screening and tests for a multitude of common health issues associated with the fire service. 

“I am deeply indebted to Jim Kane and the A.D. Makepeace company for joining forces with Wareham Fire by graciously providing the Rosebrook Event Center for these screenings,” said Kelley.