Check out the AFL-CIO's new In Our Communities website feature, "Firefighters Give Back to Their Communities On and Off the Job." 

It’s hard to miss a burly firefighter in a bright pink T-shirt. And for tens of thousands of Fire Fighters (IAFF) union members across the country, that’s exactly the point. When the public sees them in pink tees, they are reminded that breast cancer is a deadly disease requiring regular exams and mammograms. And they are urged to help women who can’t afford regular check-ups.

Although firefighters put their lives on the line every day—from braving burning buildings to risking exposure to hazardous chemicals—their commitment to their communities doesn’t end with their shift at the firehouse.

Nationwide, firefighters give countless hours fundraising for breast cancer research and promoting awareness. Their efforts kick into full gear in early fall as they prepare for Breast Cancer Awareness Month each October.

“With our visibility out in the public, when we do school demonstrations or do training, it creates a lot of buzz, a lot of chatter, reminds people it’s breast cancer awareness month,” says Chris Leimpeter, vice president of IAFF Local 230 in San Jose.

Read the rest of "Firefighters Give Back to Their Communities On and Off the Job."