$146K AFG grant helps Ind. FD buy new fire, EMS gear

By Brooke McAfee
The Evening News and the Tribune

FLOYD COUNTY, Ind. — Highlander Fire Protection District has new firefighting gear after receiving a federal grant.

On Tuesday, the fire department distributed its new protective gear to its firefighters. The district received $146,285 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters program to procure the high-quality gear.

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The department provides both fire and EMS service for Greenville and Lafayette townships.

Highlander Fire Chief Jake Barnes said it “means a lot” to receive the updated gear.

“Our fire board has really taken care of us like they always do, and they made it an absolute imperative that we get this gear as soon as possible,” he said.

The department bought full structural firefighting ensembles, or the protective suits firefighters wear when entering burning buildings.

Each new set of equipment has a helmet, jacket, pants, boots and gloves to offer protection from heat, flames and debris.

The gear includes 33 sets of firefighter turnout gear and 10 sets of EMS gear. It includes new extrication and wildland gear that offers flexibility and durability during rescue and patient care operations.

Barnes said the AFG grant is “a crucial investment in the safety of our team.”

“The new gear will replace older equipment, ensuring our firefighters have the best protection possible,” he said. “We are incredibly grateful for this funding, which will directly enhance our ability to serve and protect the residents of our district.”

Battalion Chief Brandon Stott and Training Officer Cody Macon were among those involved in applying for the grant.

“It was like 24/7 attempts making sure everything’s perfect, so I’m really proud of the board and Stott getting us all this gear,” Barnes said. “This is really, really good for us.”

He said firefighting gear typically lasts about 10 years, and it is “not uncommon to maybe wear out some gear a little early.”

“And of course, you can fix it through the right vendor, which we have, but at some point, you need this, and this is going to help our safety,” Barnes said.

The fire department can also use its older gear as backup when needed.

Sgt. Ryan Houchen, the public information officer for Highlander, said FEMA picked the department out of a “large amount” of fire departments seeking assistance.

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