The fire department receives $400,000 from a regional FEMA grant to replace secured breathing apparatus (SCBA) gear.
West Deptford Fire Department teamed up with four other local fire departments to apply for a regional FEMA grant to replace obsolete Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). The total grant awarded was approximately million dollars. A grant of $400,000 was allocated to West Deptford Fire Department.
“Thanks to FEMA’s grant we were able to purchase 39 air packs,” said Chief Anthony Fierola. “The new gear is critical to our firefighter’s safety.”
The pack gives firefighters fresh air to breathe. Firefighters are at risk when answering calls whether it’s hazardous atmospheres such as smoke from buildings or a chemical leak, this pack protects their lungs.
Although this gear is crucial to responding to an emergency safely, it comes at a high cost. One pack is $7,500.
“We’re grateful to keep state-of-the-art gear for our firefighters,” said Assistant Chief David Raso. “The updated SCBA gear is more comfortable with new improvements.”
The straps of the new air tanks are made of material that doesn’t absorb potentially harsh chemicals when firefighters respond to a hazard call. It’s easier to remove the straps and wash them.
On May 15th, West Deptford Fire Department conducted a live burn training at Salem County Fire Academy to test out the new equipment. Training with new equipment is essential to ensure that firefighters are comfortable with using the gear so that they are prepared for real-life emergency situations, enhancing safety and effectiveness.
“There’s a lot of hands-on training opportunities at West Deptford Fire Department,” said volunteer firefighter, Michael Claridades. “Not only do we train at live burns, we train in-house with various life-saving devices and several apparatuses across all our stations.”
The department provides its volunteers the training and gear they need to safely respond when an emergency call comes in. There are many ways to volunteer and no experience is necessary to join. Those interested can join as a:
- Firefighter Active firefighters encounter a broad range of fire calls from businesses and industrial parks to homes in West Deptford and neighboring towns. They utilize up-to-date equipment and the best techniques to protect the community.
- Explorer/Junior firefighter Explorers, ages 14-15, learn firefighting techniques and skills, and participate in drill nights. Juniors, ages 16-17, go on fire calls, but may not enter burning buildings.
- Fire Police
Fire police direct traffic and crowds to ensure the safety of the public and
firefighters during emergency scenes or community events.
To learn more or sign up, visit www.WestDeptfordFirefighter.org and fill out an inquiry form.