Fort Ann Firefighters Pair Fire Safety Reminders With Breast Cancer Awareness

Fort Ann, N.Y. — October 11 — Fort Ann Volunteer Fire Company is sharing early detection messages during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, using pink accents on its first-due engine to remind people to stay alert to health changes. 

The department highlights how checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is similar to focusing on personal health. The engine’s pink accents honor a breast cancer survivor in the company and express the message to keep fighting. 

Firefighters routinely remind residents to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries as recommended. The department is encouraging people to apply that same attention to their health by staying aware of changes, keeping up with recommended screenings and contacting a healthcare provider when something does not seem right.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists possible breast cancer warning signs that include a new lump in the breast or underarm, swelling or thickening, skin changes, nipple changes or discharge, and changes in breast size or shape. These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but the CDC advises people to seek medical attention if they notice them.