Health and Safety Resources
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois
“Every 46 hours across the United States, a firefighter or EMS worker is abused. Every nine days, a firefighter is injured severely enough to require hospitalization,” Chuck Sullivan-AFFI President said. “Whether it’s Chicago, Clinton, Champaign, or Carbondale, workplace safety has to be a priority.”
PFAS in Firefighter Gear: What You Need to Know
Even gear marketed as “PFAS Free” has been found to contain dangerous chemicals. Independent testing by IAFF affiliates has revealed high levels of PFAS, despite manufacturer claims.
When purchasing new gear, don’t take labels at face value. AFFI urges locals to:
✅ Require proof of compliance with NFPA 1970
✅ Ask for independent certification (OEKO-TEX or equivalent)
✅ Request confirmatory testing for new gear
Your health is on the line—make sure your gear is truly safe.
#PFAS #FirefighterSafety #AFFI #UnionStrong
Big Win for Illinois Firefighters!
Thanks to the work of the AFFI, Illinois has taken a major step forward in protecting our members from toxic PFAS in bunker gear:
📅 January 1, 2026 – Any bunker gear sold in Illinois must include a warning if PFAS are intentionally added.
📅 January 1, 2027 – No bunker gear with PFAS can be sold in Illinois.
This is a victory for firefighter health and safety—but the fight isn’t over. AFFI continues to monitor research and push for the safest gear possible.
#PFASFree #FirefighterHealth #AFFIStrong
🧾 Before You Buy New Gear… Ask These Questions:
1. Does the gear comply with NFPA 1970?
2. Does the gear contain PFAS or other chemical treatments?
3. Has the gear been tested for human toxicity?
4. Can the manufacturer provide full test results in writing?
Don’t settle for vague promises—get documentation. Your health, your family, and your career depend on it.
📌 AFFI is committed to making sure Illinois firefighters wear the safest gear possible.
#FirefighterSafety #PFASFreeGear #AFFI
Firefighters put their lives on the line every day—their gear should protect them, not harm them.
The AFFI is:
🔹 Monitoring the latest PFAS research
🔹 Working with IAFF & other state associations
🔹 Providing updates via email, social media, and the AFFI Health & Safety page
Stay informed. Stay safe. Together, we will ensure that Illinois firefighters get the safe, effective gear they deserve.
👉 Members can log in to the AFFI website for updates.
#UnionStrong #FirefighterHealth #PFASFree
🚨 SAFETY ADVISORY: Fire Blankets & EV Fires 🚨
The IAFF has issued a critical Safety Advisory urging firefighters NOT to use fire blankets on electric vehicle (EV) fires involving the battery.
🔻 Why?
Although fire blankets can smother flames by cutting off oxygen, they do not stop thermal runaway within EV batteries. This can lead to a dangerous buildup of flammable gases like hydrogen beneath the blanket—posing a serious explosion hazard, especially in confined spaces like parking garages.
📌 Key Takeaways:
- ❌ Do not use fire blankets on EV battery fires.
- ✅ Water application remains the safest and most effective initial suppression method.
- 🔥 Watch for signs of battery involvement: flames from undercarriage or wheel wells, jetting, hissing, popping, or repeated reignition.
- 📖 For more: IAFF Energy Hazard Guide
The IAFF continues to work alongside UL FSRI and the NFPA to develop science-backed strategies for safely managing EV incidents.
Let’s stay safe and lead with science.
