FirefighterConnection Weekly Newsletter – September 14, 2025

Health, Safety, Training Updates, and New Career Opportunities for Today’s Firefighters

Author

Roger Waters
September 14, 2025

National Firefighter Health & Safety News

Cancer Prevention: Firefighters nationwide are intensifying efforts to eliminate PFAS 'forever chemicals' from their gear due to cancer risks. In Rhode Island, one department became the first in the U.S. to outfit all firefighters with PFAS-free turnout gear. Cancer has now replaced heart disease as the leading cause of firefighter line-of-duty deaths. Several states have passed laws banning PFAS in firefighting gear. Read more:

Wildland Smoke Protection: The U.S. Forest Service will begin providing N95 masks to federal wildland firefighters to reduce harmful smoke exposure. This change follows decades of restrictions on mask use. About 80,000 N95 masks will now be distributed as standard gear on large wildfires. Read more: 

Latest Firefighter Connection Blog Posts

Weighted Vests in Firefighter Workouts: Benefits, Popularity, and Best Practices
Discusses the rising popularity of weighted vests in firefighter training, safety considerations, and best practices for use.
Read full article:

Fire and Philosophy: How Stoicism Strengthens Firefighters (March 2, 2025)
Explores how Stoic philosophy helps firefighters with stress, resilience, and long-term mental wellness.
Read full article:

Career Opportunities (Current Firefighter Job Openings)

Naperville Fire Department (Illinois) – Application Deadline: October 17, 2025 (2:00 PM)
Apply here:

Alexandria Fire Department (Virginia) – Application Deadline: September 29, 2025
Apply here:

Clark County Fire Department (Nevada) – Application Period: September 16 – October 14, 2025
Apply here:

Training & Education Updates

Safety Training Recommendations: The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) urges fire departments to increase training for uncommon incidents, including shipboard fires, and align curricula with NFPA standards. Read more: 

Higher Education for Firefighters: Miramar College in San Diego launched a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Management program. The program provides advanced emergency management and leadership training for veteran first responders. Read More:

Have a great week and be safe!

Roger Waters

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