PANAMA CITY – Mayor Greg Brudnicki says local firefighters have the resources they need to thrive.
He and the Panama City commissioners on Tuesday approved 3 grants for the Panama City Fire Department that, in total, amount to nearly $542,000 in state and federal funds. Marine fires.
“These grants are things that will give more confidence (to fire fighters) that we are involved in their health, protection and well-being,” Brudnicki said. “On a specific day, time or week, they probably wouldn’t have to fight a fire, but they have to be ready, and they have to be ready to save you (negative effects) that can occur from jumping into the fray. “
Bertha Swamp Fire Review: Panama City-Sized Bertha Swamp Fire and Lynn Haven Combined
Another fire-related grant: Bay County eligible for $1. 5 million grant after Star Avenue fire
According to the agenda, the aid was:
Chief David Collier of the Panama City Fire Department said the first grant will fund a momentary set of balaclavas and protective gloves for the city’s 85 firefighters. Configured for multiple calls. Then they can wash their infected equipment very well.
This is vital because the chimney can remain in such equipment, prolonging firefighters’ exposure.
The current grant will fund exhaust escape formulas for the city’s five chimney stations, Collier said.
The branch already has a system, but the grant will allow them to upgrade it with new, more reliable technology.
“We need to restrict our exposure to carcinogens and carcinogens,” he said. “(Cancer) is becoming one of the main killers of our active duty (members) and our retirees.
“I would say (firefighters have cancer) more than two or three times more than a person. “
The 3rd grant will fund a new vessel for the Panama City Fire Department capable of fighting marine fires. The branch has a firefighting vessel, the grant will pay for a larger one.
Collier said his branch is the only chimney branch in Bay County provided with this type of vessel. It protects only port spaces within city limits, but also all county waterways.
For him, the approval of the grants by the commission shows that he has the backing of his ministry.
“They perceive the risks of our jobs and all that that entails,” Collier said. “Our elected officials Array. . . They must do everything they can to provide us with the (safest) environment to run in which we can function while maintaining strong and effective strength.
“I think it’s wonderful that we have (their) support. “