Jan 10, 2008 5:53 pm US/Eastern
Baltimore Firefighters To Get New Gear From Grant
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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New jackets, gloves and hats are all part of a more than $1 million deal to provide more equipment to firefighters in Baltimore City.
Baltimore City firefighters are getting some much needed equipment.
Jessica Kartalija reports the department is being awarded the largest firefighter grant in Baltimore City history.
When your job entails climbing through a sea of smoke and rushing into burning buildings, the last thing you need to worry about is what you're wearing.
"I am so honored today to announce a federal grant of $1.42 million...to purchase 1,200 sets of turnout gear," said Senator Barbara Mikulski.
It's the largest grant in Baltimore City firefighting history, and it's great news for 1,700 firefighters in dire need of new equipment.
"Benefits of this award will be instant. It will provide our members with a level of protection--wearing state-of-the art turnout gear that will limit the potential of thermal injuries while engaging in firefighting activities," said Gregory Ward, acting chief BCFD.
New jackets, gloves and hats are all part of the deal.
It's all thanks to Mikulski who pushed for more funding for firefighters through a grant program sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security.
"Usually the grants are $300,000 or $400,000. A million dollar grant is highly unusual," said Mikulski.
In fact, it's one of the largest grants awarded to a department anywhere in the country.
"All of this equipment weighs about 80 pounds and costs about a $1,000 per firefighter," said Mikulski.
Since 2001, Maryland fire departments have received $55 million through grant programs.
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