US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Preventing Firefighter Deaths
The Healthy Lungs for Heroes Act mandates approved respirators for federal wildland firefighters to reduce health risks linked to wildfire smoke, which may shorten life expectancy by 10 years, officials say.
- On Nov. 19, 2025, Sen. Adam Schiff and Sen. John Curtis introduced the Healthy Lungs for Heroes Act to require respirators and respiratory rules for federal wildland firefighters.
- For years, federal wildland firefighters have worked 16-hour days carrying 80 pounds of gear with little protection from smoke containing carbon monoxide, benzene, formaldehyde, and other toxins.
- In September the Forest Service allowed voluntary N95 use, but officials say N95 masks don’t filter gases or vapors and heavy air tanks are impractical for wildland tasks.
- Union leaders called the bill a first step, while wildland firefighters supported better protection but warned the wrong gear could hinder work; retired federal firefighter Riva Duncan said, `People don’t think about what they can’t see.`
- The Forest Service said it is working with federal partners to test gear and create realistic protection policies, and Schiff told NBC News it’s critical to protect firefighters from wildfire health risks.
Insights by Ground AI
19 Articles
19 Articles
Protecting those who protect us: Preventing firefighter deaths
Many firefighter line-of-duty deaths that have nothing to do with fires can — and should — be prevented, according to a national fire safety consultant. WBAL-TV 11 News Investigates examines what's being done about it.
·Baltimore, United States
Read Full Article
Coverage Details
Total News Sources19
Leaning Left4Leaning Right2Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution46% Center
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources are Center
46% Center
L 36%
C 46%
R 18%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
