The Vancouver Fire Department was recently awarded a $439,676 FEMA grant that will assist them in purchasing thermal imaging cameras and in paying for hazardous materials response training. | Stock Photo
The Vancouver Fire Department was recently awarded a $439,676 FEMA grant that will assist them in purchasing thermal imaging cameras and in paying for hazardous materials response training. | Stock Photo
The Federal Emergency Management Agency recently awarded a $439,676 Assistance to Firefighters Grant to the Vancouver Fire Department that will assist with the purchase of thermal imaging cameras and training in hazardous materials response and incident management, according to a press release from the City of Vancouver.
Of the grant, $185,861 will go toward the purchase of 21 of the thermal imaging cameras. The cameras assist firefighters in locating hot spots and the source of a fire, permitting them to see despite smoke and other obstructions where the hottest places are in a room or structure.
The remaining $253,816 will go toward training for Vancouver Fire Department personnel in responding to such incidents as chemical spills and gas leaks, according to the press release. The training will also include the development of response plans for the department to a variety of hazardous materials incidents.
“These grant funds are an essential part of improving the life-saving capabilities of the Vancouver Fire Department, allowing us to move forward with replacing vitally important equipment and provide specialized training to our first responders," Fire Chief Joe Molina said in the press release.
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