Valhalla Fire Department participates in No-Shave November with a twist
Around 12 fire fighters with Valhalla's Engine Company #1 and Independent Fire Company participated.
More Stories
This week, members of the Valhalla Fire Department will be wrapping up its "No-Shave November" challenge, where participants grew mustaches to raise awareness for men's mental and physical health.
Around 12 fire fighters with Valhalla's Engine Company #1 and Independent Fire Company participated.
"All firefighters in general: We are at a higher risk of cancer and a lot of other diseases because of the nature of our work, and a lot of people put off health, mental health...and they wait till it's too late. So it's important to start now," said firefighter Rich Zerbo.
According to the International Association of Fire Fighters, or IAFF, cancer is the number one killer of fire fighters.
This is believed to be linked to PFAS in fire fighting foam and turn out gear as one of the reasons.
The IAFF refers to PFAS as an "occupation threat."
"You're not alone. You're not the first one to go through this; you're not the last one. Reach out. There are people willing to help. They want to help," said Zerbo.
The department says it hopes to bring the challenge back next year.
