For Immediate Release

Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Video: Gloucester Fire Department Implements New Breathing Apparatus

GLOUCESTER — Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken and Chief Eric Smith are pleased to announce that the Gloucester Fire Department has purchased and implemented new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for the entire department.

On Monday, Oct. 17, Gloucester firefighters began training with the 45 new SCBA units, which include a harness, backpack, face mask, and two cylinders. The new units provide ground-breaking technology to assist firefighters in finding the path of least resistance when in a burning building. Each pack also emits a radio frequency which can be picked up by nearby packs, helping rescuers locate both one another and the safest route out of a structure.

The new equipment was purchased through a $323,091 Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The City of Gloucester provided a 10 percent match of $32,309 to accompany the federal grant, totaling $355,400 for the replacement of all of the department’s old SCBA units. The new units went into service on all apparatus on Oct 31.

“I am grateful to both FEMA, Mayor Theken and the City Council for their support and funding of the Gloucester Fire Department in purchasing this new equipment,” Chief Smith said. “The city has been instrumental in understanding the needs of the department and furthering our development for the betterment of the community.”

“These new Airpacks will allow Gloucester firefighters to better serve residents during emergencies,” Mayor Theken said. “I am proud to support their efforts to stay up-to-date with the best, most effective safety measures for officials and civilians alike.

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