Hero Wipes, a leading innovator of proven, protective wipes for first responders, announced it has acquired Rescue Wipes, the original decontamination wipe for firefighters. Rescue Wipes will retain its unique branding and is now part of the Hero Wipes product line. The Hero Wipes brand portfolio also includes Hero Wipes EMS, which is formulated to reduce infection risks from bloodborne pathogens.

“The acquisition of Rescue Wipes is an exciting development for our growing portfolio of products for first responders,” says Eve Yen, founder and CEO of Diamond Wipes International, Inc., which owns Hero Wipes. “We see a real opportunity to intensify the level of education and awareness about how truly effective on-scene decon is in fighting exposure to cancer-causing toxins.”

Rescue Wipes’ origin dates back to 2013 when team members of the yet-to-be formed company participated in a panel with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network studying the prevalence of cancer in the fire service. The panel’s findings determined that dermal absorption was a leading cause of cancer. It was indeed this stunning finding that led to the creation of Rescue Wipes, the first on-scene decon wipe formulated for the specific needs of first responders.

Hero Wipes FIRE was introduced in 2017 and is the first on-scene decontamination wipe to have its unique formulation, a patent-pending blend of ingredients that works to isolate harmful toxins and carcinogens, scientifically tested for effectiveness in their removal. Hero Wipes is verified to remove up to 90% of Benzopyrene (BaP), commonly found in soot and up to 69% of TCEP, the most common toxic flame retardant, in just a single swipe. Hero Wipes is also EWG Verified for its commitment to using safe ingredients, sound manufacturing practices and transparency.

Within the portfolio of wipe products offered to first responders by Hero Wipes, the Rescue Wipes brand will be positioned as an entry-level decon wipe. The rationale is straightforward: product alternatives such as baby wipes, which are not formulated or designed to address carcinogenic compounds, and antiseptic wipes, which contain alcohol, are not appropriate for first responders. Rescue Wipes is formulated with carcinogen absorption and removal in mind. The reduction in cost is achieved by selecting only the most critical ingredients and choosing smaller size and lighter weight fabric.

Of great importance to Hero Wipes is maintaining its “Made in the U.S.A.” heritage, and therefore the company will be moving manufacturing of Rescue Wipes from overseas to Chino, CA. Additional priorities will include product testing and a complete integration of sales and distribution.

Yen adds: “Once we have completed testing on Rescue Wipes, we’ll determine if any changes should be made to the formulation. It is important that we are able to offer effective solutions within our portfolio at a variety of price points.”

Jake Sherman, co-founder and vice president of Rescue Wipes, will join the Diamond Wipes International team as sales manager – Government Sector.

“The merging of these two exciting brands will allow our combined team to deliver the cancer prevention message more effectively through our enhanced distribution channels and our diversely priced and positioned product line,” adds Sherman. “We want all first responders to #WipeAwayTheRisk.”

Terms of the sale were not disclosed.