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White Rock crew fighting more than fires

White Rock firefighters raised $630 for the Canadian Cancer Society last month, through the sale of daffodil pins outside of Buy-Low Foods.
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White Rock firefighters Matt Meneghin (left) and Connor McMahon sell daffodil pins outside Buy Low Foods April 23

White Rock firefighters raised $630 for the Canadian Cancer Society last month, through the sale of daffodil pins outside of Buy-Low Foods.

Daffodil helmetFirefighter Paul Farrant said the cause is close to the crew's hearts, as firefighters have a higher rate of developing cancers than average, due to being exposed to carcinogens on a regular basis. They also develop these cancers – including testicular, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, skin and brain – much earlier in life, Farrant said.

"Your average household in this day and age is filled with furniture and belongings that are made from synthetic materials. When these items burn they produce toxic and carcinogenic smoke and vapours. These vapours are then absorbed through the skin into the body," Farrant explained by email.

Daffodil Month is one of the Canadian Cancer Society's largest national campaigns. Funds raised support research and services for people living with cancer and their families.

Farrant said the firefighters plan to repeat their contribution to the effort on an annual basis, during cancer awareness month.