Fire Fighters are exposed to many different toxins during their career resulting in a higher risk of cancer. The list of cancers is long with Pancreatic and Thyroid cancers the most recent to be added. The Ontario Professional Fire Fighters Association (OPFFA) continues to gather information on all firefighter’s cancers and illnesses, even those not on the list.
"The Ontario government will soon introduce legislation that, if passed, will expand presumptive coverage for firefighters in the case of primary-site kidney cancer by reducing the required duration of service from 20 to 10 years – the lowest in Canada. The province will also propose to remove the requirement that a firefighter’s primary-site colorectal diagnosis must be made before the age of 61. These changes will ensure that firefighters can access their WSIB benefits more easily".
You can read more here - OPFFA - Ontarios Presumptive Cancer Legislation
It’s always hoped none of our brothers or sisters ever find themselves in such a situation, but please keep in mind there is help to get any entitlements available to you should the unthinkable happen, and as mentioned it is important to document all cancers. You can reach the TPFFA 3888 WSIB Committee to get assistance on all cancers via the following email address active.retired@torontoprofessionalfirefighters.org
It is important to note that the committee should be contacted once a diagnosis is confirmed.
Note – you can use the email above to contact them about any job-related illness.
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