Orland firefighters receive backpack pumps
August 30, 2012 11:30AM
Pictured (from left) are John Teninty, Ken Brucki, Sue Gram, Eric Zielinski and Dan Smith. | Supplied Photo
Updated: October 3, 2012 6:03AM
The Orland Fire Protection District will buy firefighting backpack pumps thanks to a grant from Illinois American Water.
The IAW 2012 Firefighter Grant Program provides funding to fire and emergency organizations serving communities in its service areas.
According to Karla Olson Teasley, president of Illinois American Water, the Firefighter Grant Program has been successful in providing assistance to community fire protection efforts.
“Over the last two years we’ve been able to provide 83 grants totaling over $100,000 to fire departments across Illinois,” Teasley said. “We look forward to providing even more assistance to firefighters in our communities.”
Grants of $1,500 and less are awarded to cover the costs associated with personal protective gear, communications equipment, firefighting tools, water handling equipment, training and related activities/materials used to support community fire protection; and reimbursement for specific fire training classes, including training manuals and workbook.
According to Chief Ken Brucki, the backpack pumps will allow firefighters more effective access in extinguishing small or more remote outside fires.
“The purchase of backpack pumps gives firefighters the ability to carry up to five gallons of water on their backs to disperse where needed,” Brucki said. “Emergency preparedness is part of the district’s ongoing objective in keeping firefighters fully equipped and residents safe in all parts of the district.”
Provided to the SouthtownStar
