GOALS
Although firefighters are unionized, they are not able to strike, as it would be a public safety hazard. Therefore, it’s up to us, the public, to advocate for our brave men and women who risk their lives to keep our communities safe. Below are the five main goals the Last Call Foundation is hoping to accomplish.
Replacing Less Fire-Resistant Hoses
Our Goal
Michael Kennedy and Lt. Walsh died in 2014 because their hose burned through and failed under the high heat of the raging inferno in Boston’s Back Bay, leaving them trapped without a way out.
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Many fire departments still use outdated hoses that are less resistant to heat. Our goal is facilitate the replacement of these legacy hoses with our more fire-resistant Snap-Tite hose.
“Hot Works” Bill
Our Goal
This bill aims to establish stricter safety protocols and regulations for construction activities that generate heat or sparks, such as welding, that potentially start fires like the one that killed Michael Kennedy and Lt. Edward Walsh. Shortly after that fire, legislation was passed to require completion of an online training course every three years to maintain a hot works license, however there is very little enforcement of that condition.
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Our goal is to push state legislation for laws to better educate hot works crews about fire prevention and enforce stricter penalties if a fire results from an unlicensed crew that either severely injures or kills a person.
Firehouse Safety
Our Goal
Many firehouses in the commonwealth are old, unsafe, and poorly ventilated. Leaks and moisture cause black mold, leading to allergies and illness. When engine garages share space with living quarters, soot and exhaust fumes can spread throughout the building, increasing the risk of cancer and respiratory disease.
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Our goal is to improve firehouse living conditions by reducing exposure to carcinogens and implementing proper equipment cleaning protocols.
Cancer in Firefighters: Prevalence, PFAS, and Prevention
Our Goal
Firefighters face significantly elevated cancer risks due to exposure to carcinogens while fighting fires, including PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) commonly found in firefighting foam and gear. We are committed to reducing the instance of cancer in firefighters.
Our goal is to fund education and awareness, supporting research, and promoting prevention strategies to improve the safety for our dedicated community of heroes. ​​
​DID YOU KNOW?
Firefighters protective gear is coated with a chemical that is a known carcinogen called PFAS.
Mental Health & PTSD
Our Goal
The mental health challenges faced by firefighters are as serious as the physical ones. Repeated exposure to traumatic events, high-stress situations, and loss takes a significant toll. Research released in 2022 found the percentage of firefighters with PTSD could be at least 57%, higher than the levels of PTSD reported by military personnel.
Our goal is to destigmatize mental health issues, provide access to counseling and support services, and advocate for comprehensive mental wellness programs.
