Your Donations at Work: Weston Firefighters Score New Gear, Combat 'Forever Chemicals'

WESTON, CT — The Weston Volunteer Fire Department has invested $215,000 in PFAS-free turnout gear, a significant purchase aimed at reducing long-term health risks for firefighters. The funding came entirely from the department’s Benevolent Fund, supported by private donations, with no taxpayer dollars used.

The department's leadership cited growing concerns about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, found in traditional firefighting gear. These synthetic chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have been linked to serious health issues such as cancer, hormone disruption and immune system complications.

“We now know that some of the materials we thought were keeping firefighters safe may have posed hidden risks,” said Fire Chief 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.”

Craig Cohen, president of the department, noted this is one of the largest safety-related investments in the department’s history. “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,” he said.

The department encourages ongoing community engagement to support future safety initiatives.