East Providence First in US to Ditch Cancer-Linked PFAS in Fire Gear

East Providence first in US to ditch cancer-linked PFAS in fire gear

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — East Providence has reportedly become the first city in the country to purchase and outfit its fire department with PFAS-free turnout gear. City officials unveiled the new equipment Tuesday, describing it as a major step forward in protecting the long-term health of firefighters. "Our number one asset is our people. The job doesn't get done without the people," East Providence Fire Chief Michael Carey said. "Protec…

East Providence Fire Department is using new gear with no PFAS

A first in the country happening right here in Rhode Island.

Kevin O’Hara Holds Campaign Reception for PFFM Trustee Position

Photos by Cary Shuman Revere Fire Capt. Kevin O’Hara held a campaign reception in his quest for a Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts (PFFM) Trustee position June 12 at Easy Pie restaurant in Revere. The statewide election is Thursday, June 19. Mayor Patrick Keefe and Retired Fire Chief Christopher Bright joined a large crowd of city officials, along with Kevin O’Hara’s colleagues in the firefighting profession, family and friends, at the…

East Providence Rhode Island Firefighters Receive Non-PFAS Turnout Gear

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — June 18, 2025 — The East Providence Fire Department has become the first in the United States to purchase and use non-PFAS turnout gear department-wide—an industry milestone achieved through a collaborative partnership with protective gear manufacturer Fire-Dex and textile innovator Milliken & Company. The gear, which includes Milliken Assure—North America’s first non-PFAS, non-halogenated flame-resistant moisture barrier—w…

East Providence becomes first in US to implement PFAS-free turnout gear

East Providence equips entire department with PFAS-free turnout gear The East Providence Fire Department in Rhode Island has become the first in the United States to outfit all firefighters with turnout gear free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The initiative was carried out in partnership with Fire-Dex and Milliken & Company and funded by […]