East Providence Fire Department to be PFAS-free

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The East Providence Fire Department will soon be PFAS-free when it receives new turnout gear for its firefighters.

A spokesperson said the city council approved the purchase of the gear, making it the first department in the state to eliminate PFAS.

PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” takes over 1,000 years to degrade and are, according to the National Cancer Institute, a carcinogen.

“Up until recently, there were no alternatives for firefighting gear that were free from PFAS that could be found in the market,” Chief Michael Carey said. “Upon availability, we initiated discussions with the manufacturer to determine the most suitable PFAS-free alternative for our personnel, aiming to replace all current gear containing PFAS compounds as quickly as possible for the protection of our personnel.”

The new gear will cost $658,000 and will be paid for through American Rescue Plan Act funds.