Four training sessions were conducted to educate teams on the risks of contaminant exposure during fires and to reinforce preventative measures. These sessions are designed to promote proactive health strategies for firefighters.

“It is imperative to act upstream to protect the health of our firefighters. As a company, we must do everything to make their safety provided at each stage, including after the intervention, ” said Stéphanie Lacoste, mayor of Drummondville.

The sessions, led by Pascal Gagnon, Occupational Health and Safety Advisor to the Joint Association for Occupational Health and Safety (APSAM), concentrated on identifying contaminants and implementing effective decontamination practices. Firefighters participated in practical demonstrations led by the SSISC joint health and safety committee, learning how to properly remove contaminants from their gear promptly after leaving a fire scene and before returning to the station.

A key part of each session was a testimonial from Martin Salois, a firefighter with the Fire Security Service of Montreal, who is battling stage 4 cancer. He shared his experiences to deliver a powerful message to his colleagues.

Commitment to Firefighter Safety

“These concrete actions illustrate our commitment to place health and security at the heart of our priorities.”

Beyond the awareness campaign, the SSISC has taken several steps to enhance long-term safety.Each firefighter now has two sets of protective gear to allow for immediate decontamination after responding to incidents. Furthermore, renovations at the Cockburn street barracks, completed since November 2024, include dedicated decontamination areas for staff and equipment.

“These concrete actions illustrate our commitment to place health and security at the heart of our priorities. Every day, our teams are ready to put their lives into play to ensure the protection of the population, ” said Andrew Barr, director of the Drummondville Fire and Civil Security Safety Service.

Regional Collaboration

In a spirit of collaboration, representatives from the Fire Security Services for the MRC of Drummond also attended the sessions. This inclusive approach underscores the shared obligation in combating occupational cancers.