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Carcinogen Exposure Risk

Wildfires expose wildland firefighters (WLFFs) to many different types of exposure hazards and risks, including carcinogens (substances that can cause cancer). Common exposures experienced during suppression and prescribed fire operations include smoke, dust, and ash. Additional carcinogenic exposures in the wildland fire environment include diesel exhaust, crystalline silica through work activities performed in ash and soil, asbestos, and radionuclides in certain geographic areas, heavy metals, and sunlight. WLFFs can be exposed to these hazards through inhaling, ingesting, and absorbing through the skin or mucous membranes.

Infographic of IARC Monographs Vol. 132: occupational exposure as a firefighter

 

 

In 2022, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) determined that “occupational exposure” as a firefighter was classified as “carcinogenic to humans” based on “sufficient” evidence for cancer in humans. This evaluation considered exposure and health studies from structural and wildland firefighters. The magnitude and frequency of exposure to carcinogens in the wildland environment vary, and traditional exposure reduction methods may be difficult to implement. Current recommended mitigation strategies to reduce exposure to carcinogens include:

Reduce exposure to dermal hazards

  • Implement hygiene practices for yourself and your gear and equipment.
  • “Cold trail” only to the extent of what is needed to secure your area.
  • When possible, shower or use a “bath-in-a-bag” to remove residual soot/ash from the skin.
  • Wear clean clothing and when possible, wash your clothing, often. If unable to launder, exchange clothing when on incidents. Clean high-touch surfaces in vehicles and workplaces.
  • Protect your skin from sun exposure. Apply sunscreen to sun-exposed areas (following manufacturer’s instructions).

Reduce exposure to inhalation and ingestion hazards

  • Establish mop-up criteria that allow resources to secure their area based on fire behavior, fuels, and topography.
  • Rotate fire personnel in and out of areas with high unavoidable smoke exposure.
  • Use air resource advisors to monitor and address smoke concerns at fire camps.
  • Locate Incident Command Posts (ICPs) and remote camps where the least smoke impact is practicable.
  • When provided, use the ventilated sleeping trailers.

WLFFs and incident management personnel prioritize health and safety, however, it is important to note that not all mitigation strategies will be applicable in all settings. Understanding your risk and implementing mitigation options where and when possible, may reduce your overall exposure.

Discussion Question:

  • What are specific ways you can minimize your exposure in various work scenarios? Think through shifts when you experienced exposure to carcinogenic hazards and implemented strategies to reduce your risk.

References:

Category
Firefighter Health and First Aid

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NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Celebrates 50 Years!

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

References:

NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

2026 Professional Reading List

Date: March 4, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: WFLDP Curriculum Management

The Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program (WFLDP) is announcing the 2026 Professional Reading List.  The goal of the annual reading list is to promote the reading and discussion of the selected books throughout the year. 

The six books chosen for this year are: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie; Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink; Meditations by Marcus Aurelious; Quiet by Susan Cain; The Little Book of Stoic Quotes by Phil Van Treuren; and The Confident Mind by Nate Zinsser.

References:

Professional Reading Program

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program