Weston Volunteer Fire Department Invests $215,000 in PFAS-Free Turnout Gear to Protect Firefighters from Long-Term Health Risks Weston, CT – The Weston Volunteer Fire Department (WVFD) is proud to announce a major $215,000 investment in PFAS-Free turnout gear — a move that places the long- term health and safety of its volunteer firefighters front and center. This purchase was funded entirely through the department’s Benevolent Fund — supported by private donations — and did not use town or taxpayer dollars. The department is committed to using donated funds responsibly, and this investment is a direct reflection of that promise. The investment marks a significant step in protecting those who protect the community. Weston’s firefighters are neighbors, friends, and family members who volunteer their time and risk their lives in service. Ensuring their protective gear is as safe as possible is a top priority. In recent years, growing attention has been paid to the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in traditional firefighting gear. PFAS are a group of human- made chemicals that were commonly used to make gear resistant to heat and water. However, new research shows that these so-called “forever chemicals” can build up in the body over time and have been linked to serious health concerns, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system problems. “We now know that some of the materials we thought were keeping firefighters safe may have posed hidden risks,” said Chief of the Weston Volunteer Fire Department John Pokorny. “There is nothing more important to me than the safety of our firefighters and providing this newly available turnout gear helps to ensure that we are doing everything possible to meet this goal.” “This is one of the largest safety-related investments in our department’s history,” added Weston Volunteer Fire Department President Craig Cohen. “And we’re proud that it was funded by donations from the community — support that allows us to make firefighter safety a priority without burdening taxpayers.” The new gear helps eliminate a known source of chemical exposure while still providing the rugged protection firefighters need on the job. As the department continues to prioritize health and safety, community support remains more important than ever. The WVFD encourages residents to stay engaged, support future safety initiatives, and help ensure that our volunteers have the resources they need to keep serving Weston at the highest level. For more information about the Weston Volunteer Fire Department or this initiative contact us via email at contactus@wvfd.com Town of Weston, CT First Selectwoman Samantha Nestor Weston-Redding-Easton Patch Weston Today Hour Newsroom WTNH News 8 News 12 Connecticut Fire Tech & Safety LION (fb)

We are pleased to announce the addition of another active firefighter, Scott Wilmore to our ranks following the successful completion of his probationary period. We would also like to congratulate Firefighter-EMT Ryan Blake and Firefighter-EMT Benjamin Winglass on obtaining their Fire Service Instructor I certification. The Weston Fire Department remains committed to training to ensure we are ready to effectively and safely serve the community. (fb)