A brand new decontamination washer has arrived at the North Perth Fire Department Listowel station.
The new washer is a "purpose-built cabinet washer that is used to decontaminate SCBA cylinders, packs, masks, boots, gloves and helmets," according to the Municipality of North Perth.
Firefighter safety is a top priority, as firefighters are exposed to multiple types of chemicals and carcinogens when they respond to fires, big and small. Over time, exposure to these substances can cause numerous forms of cancer and other diseases, and this new equipment washer will play a huge role in preventing that.
The cost of the washer was $35,500. It was purchased in 2024, but was received in late October in Listowel and installed for use.
Some of the equipment purchased was made possible through the Firefighter Protection Grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
The unit was manufactured by Circul-Air in Cavan, Ontario and is part of the North Perth Fire Department’s decontamination strategy aimed at reducing cancer amongst firefighters.
