New turnout gear a BFD 'morale booster'

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN)...Plans by Buffalo to invest $1 million in buying new turnout gear for all 700 of its firefighters is being hailed as major morale booster.

"It is big on the morale within the department that this administration is committed investing in is firefighters," says Daniel Pizzaro, Buffalo Fire Commissioner.

The $1 million investment sends a strong message, especially with Buffalo having severe financial issues, added John Otto, Buffalo Professional Firefighters Local 282.

"We appreciate it," Otto said. "It goes beyond words."

Mayor Sean Ryan said the money will equip each of Buffalo's 700-plus firefighters with new, custom fit turnout coats and pants The new coats are lighter but also designed to protect firefighters against PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals - also referred to as 'forever chemicals'.

PFAS have been linked to a wide number of firefighters, especially retirees, being diagnosed with some form of cancer.

Dr. Mary Reid, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center chief of cancer screening and survivorship, said more than 60% of recent deaths of retired firefighters can be attributed to cancer invading their bodies - many times through PFAS that remain on their turnout gear.

Pizzaro said the new turnout gear is designed to significantly reduce firefighter's exposure to PFAS.

Pizzaro added with the new turnout gear being designed for each firefighter's body, it will make it more comfortable.

"The concept that 'my gear' fits me better is actually a tactical issue, too," Pizzaro said. "We are tactical athletes, if you will, and the near will make it easier for us to push further into a fire, if we have to."

Pizzaro said the new turnout gear will be distributed according to the age of the current equipment. The first new turnout coats and pants should be arriving later this summer.

Turnout gear has a 10-year life cycle.

Pizzaro said there are some firefighters using turnout gear that is more than 10 years old.

"You have no idea how important this is," Pizzaro said.