Too many volunteer fire departments struggle with an inadequate amount of turnout gear or worn-out, non-compliant gear they can’t afford to replace.
That’s why, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has partnered with MSA Safety Incorporated and Dupont Personal Protection since 2012, in order to give away state-of-the-art new gear to fire departments in need.
New turnout gear and helmets for fire departments
A total of 13 fire departments will be awarded with four new sets of turnouts and four new helmets in 2022
A total of 13 fire departments will be awarded with four new sets of turnouts and four new helmets in 2022. Additionally, the first 500 applicants received a one-year NVFC membership, courtesy of MSA Safety Incorporated.
The latest recipients in the giveaway are Eubank (KY) Volunteer Fire Department and Nevada County Fire and Rescue (Prescott, AR).
Eubank Volunteer Fire Department
Run entirely by volunteers, the Eubank (KY) Volunteer Fire Department stays busy with around 125 calls per year. The fire department serves a population of 3,500 across 250 square miles.
The fire department has not been successful at obtaining federal grant funding for new turnout gear, and there is not enough equipment to go around. New members have had to wear gear that is 15 to 20 years old, due to lack of funding. Similarly, all of the department’s gloves and boots are around 10 years old or older.
Donation of four new sets of turnouts and helmets
The donation of the four sets of turnouts and helmets will have a big impact on the services offered by the fire department. “It will make it a lot easier on the members who are new to attend the state mandated live fire training that is required per our SOGs and bylaws for any interior attack firefighter,” said Chief Norman Rutheford.
Norman Rutheford adds, “It will make my life a lot easier knowing my people are in good gear that is protecting them in a hostile environment.”
Nevada County Fire and Rescue
Fertilizer truck accidents with explosions and fuel spills are all too common for the fire department
Located in a small rural town in western Arkansas, Nevada County Fire and Rescue serves 3,800 residents and receives between 35-40 calls annually. The fire department looks after 221 square miles, which includes the busy I-30 interstate and a nearby chemical-transporting train.
Fertilizer truck accidents with explosions and fuel spills are all too common for the fire department; it is the only provider in northern Nevada County with extrication capabilities and one of the few that responds to hazardous material spills.
Fire department operates on Act 833 funds and fundraisers
As its residents struggle with poverty, the volunteer-run fire department operates on Act 833 funds and fundraisers throughout the year. Most of its gear dates to the 1970s and firefighters have to train without it to save it for a true emergency. The dated gear not only restricts training opportunities, but it also prevents volunteers from entering homes to conduct interior firefighting, due to safety concerns.
“Provided we had new equipment, more training (while) fully suited would be beneficial for further strength and endurance training,” explained Chief John A. Smillie.
Additional awards will be made monthly throughout 2022.
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