MEDINA, Ohio – City officials hope a new health and wellness program will help protect firefighters from the risks of the job.
“Every year we learn a little bit more about cancer risks for firefighters,” Fire Chief Larry Walters said at a recent health, safety and hygiene conference. “Now that the data is coming out, we are trying to do some things on the front end before and after a fire to minimize the risk to firefighters. Also, to help with early detection. We are also considering introducing some screening programs in the future.”
Mayor Dennis Hanwell said he applauds Walters’ commitment to wellness initiatives.
“It’s very important that we keep our citizens safe,” Hanwell said. “We also invited Police Chief Ed Kinney, because it’s customary for officers to respond to a fire first, before the fire trucks arrive.”
Hanwell said the city is consulting with local oncologists to discuss the types of cancers first responders are likely to be at risk, as well as the associated treatments and risks. He said local oncologists are reviewing the findings collected by the fire department.
“The key will be to determine which screenings are most beneficial and then consider recommendations such as whether certain screenings should be done annually or semi-annually,” Hanwell said. “I commend the chief for conducting this study and also the members of the local medical community who have supported this effort.”
