The Knoxville Fire Department is collecting donations in hope of receiving enough funds to purchase a specialized washer built to wash the protective gear firefighters wear to protect themselves from extreme heat.

The department recently received a donation of $500 from the Lorri Jahner Memorial Fund and now has started a gofundme account in hopes of receiving more help towards the purchase of the washer. The washer would be used to wash and remove cancer causing chemicals from the protective gear worn by the department. Studies conducted by the CDC show that without these special washing methods firefighters are far more likely to develop a range of cancers from the carcinogens that build up in their protective gear. The study also showed that firefighters were more likely to die from cancer if they developed it. The Department is hoping to raise $10,000 which would cover the cost of the washer. To make a donation to the department, click here.