(Friendship, IN) – The Friendship Volunteer Fire Department recently put into service part of the Next Level Firefighting Grant project.
Part of Gov. Eric Holcomb’s Next Level initiative, the grant provided 15 sets of personal protective equipment for the firefighters.
The new gear includes head-to-toe protection items such as the helmet, hood, coat, pants, gloves and boots, plus new Scott Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for each of the 15 firefighters.
The fire department says it costs over $11,000 to outfit a single firefighter with basic equipment.
“Thanks to those who advocated for our application and thanks to everyone who supports our efforts. If your home or property is protected by a volunteer fire department, get out and support them. Go to their dinners, ice cream socials, bingo nights, fruit sales, rides, fish fries, and buy those raffle tickets. Every department is needing updated equipment, trucks and members. Stand up and be a part of protecting your community even if you can’t put the gear on,” the Friendship Volunteer Fire Department wrote in a social media post.
