San Francisco FD to switch entirely to PFAS-free turnout gear

By Bill Carey | FireRescue1 | December 12, 2025

Read the full article by Bill Carey (FireRescue1)

"The San Francisco Fire Department is preparing to outfit its entire firefighting force with non-PFAS turnout gear, a move the agency says will make it the largest department in the country to fully transition away from PFAS-containing ensembles.

The department is using a $2.35 million FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant, along with matching city funds, to purchase about 1,100 sets of non-PFAS turnout gear, one per suppression member. SFFD partnered with Milliken & Company and Fire-Dex to outfit all frontline firefighters, with the rollout expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2025.

“As the San Francisco Fire Department continues to lead in innovation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the health and safety of our members,” Fire Chief Dean Crispen said. “Firefighting is inherently dangerous, and our personnel deserve access to the most modern, protective, and safest turnout gear available. Transitioning to PFAS-free equipment is a critical step in advancing our mission: safeguarding the public by ensuring our firefighters remain healthy and able to serve at their highest capacity.”