Read the full article by Katie Castellani (Providence Business News)
“EAST PROVIDENCE – The City Council recently voted to authorize Mayor Roberto L. DaSilva to purchase new turnout gear for the East Providence Fire Department, making it the first department in the state to wear fire equipment without the use of polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.
PFAS, often called ‘forever chemicals,’ are connected to several health issues. According to the National Cancer Institute, PFAS chemicals are classified as human carcinogens as of 2023.
‘We need to get it [PFAS] off our people as fast as we can,’ said Fire Chief Michael Carey during an Aug. 7 council meeting.
DaSilva thanked councilors for supporting the purchase.”…