Grants help Fla. firefighters buy PPE

By Tony Boom
The Mail Tribune

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A total of $15,000 in grants will allow the city's Fire Department to purchase eight new sets of fire turnouts, the safety pants and coats firefighters wear in emergency situations.

The Robert and Francis Chaney Family Foundation of Jacksonville has awarded the department $10,000 over two years for the equipment. Volunteer Engine Company No. 1, a charitable group in town that aids the department, will donate $5,000 next year toward the sets. The sets of turnouts cost $1,700 each.

The funds will allow the department to keep its equipment up to date and lower concerns if the turnouts are damaged, said Fire Chief Devin Hull, who secured the Chaney grant.

Full story: Grants to help buy protective firefighter gear