The Mount Carmel Fire Department has been awarded federal funding to help replace critical firefighter safety equipment.
During the most recent City Council meeting, Fire Chief Francis Speth announced the department recently received a FEMA grant that will fund the purchase of five complete sets of turnout gear.
Speth said the grant is valued at approximately $25,700 and will provide firefighters with new protective equipment used when responding to fires and other emergency incidents.
The chief noted that receiving the gear will take some time. Firefighters must first be measured for proper sizing, and the manufacturing process is expected to take four to five months. Speth estimated it could be around six months before the new gear is delivered and placed into service.
Turnout gear includes the specialized coats, pants, boots, helmets, and other protective equipment firefighters wear while operating in hazardous conditions.
Speth said the FEMA funding will help ensure Mount Carmel firefighters have access to modern, properly fitting safety equipment without placing additional costs on local taxpayers.
The chief made the announcement as part of his report to the council and said there were no other major updates from the fire department.