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Why Are Firefighters Battling Wildfires Without Masks?

Aug 25, 2025
Hannah Dreier, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, joins Joe Perez, a dedicated firefighter from Northern California. They dive into the alarming reality of wildland firefighting, where many face toxic smoke with inadequate protection. Dreier highlights the systemic barriers to adopting safer gear, while Perez shares his firsthand experiences battling blazes without masks. Together, they discuss the cultural pressures against safety measures, the health risks of smoke inhalation, and the urgent need to shift policies for the well-being of these brave first responders.
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ANECDOTE

Reporter Stood Out Wearing A Mask

  • Hannah Dreier was the only person wearing a mask on the Gifford Fire and felt she stood out among crews using only bandanas.
  • She heard young firefighters dismiss risks, saying the smoke was just organic material and harmless.
ANECDOTE

Firefighters Developing Severe Illnesses

  • Dreier interviewed firefighters who developed severe lung disease and required double lung transplants in their 40s.
  • Some firefighters now have rare, deadly cancers and are leaving young families behind.
ADVICE

Teach Cumulative Risk To Drive Protection

  • Educate crews about cumulative risks and the latency of smoke-related diseases to motivate protective behavior.
  • Emphasize long-term consequences so firefighters consider masks early in their careers.
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