Louisiana Firefighters Receive FEMA Equipment Grant

The West Feliciana Fire Protection District No. 1 has received a federal grant to go toward new protective equipment for firefighters.

Chief James R. Wood said in a news release received Monday by The Advocate the Assistance to Firefighter grant for Operations and Safety from the Federal Emergency Management Agency will provide the district just over $120,000 to buy new boots, helmets, gloves, protective hoods, and bunker pants and coats to replace older gear.

Wood said it costs roughly $2,000 to outfit a firefighter, and the gear has a service life of about 10 years. He says the department will begin outfitting and purchasing the equipment next week.