MACOMB, IL - The Emmet - Chalmers Fire Protection District has received a $39,000.00 grant from the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The district will use the funds to purchase a variety of firefighting equipment that will significantly improve the capabilities of the district.

One of the items the district will get with this grant is a thermal imaging camera (TIC). A TIC provides firefighters the ability to see through smoky and dark environments. This greatly improves the firefighter’s ability to rescue victims and extinguish the fire. "We currently search burning buildings on our hands and knees, feeling our way through blinding smoke to find victims and fire. With a thermal imaging camera, we’ll be able to see through smoke, cutting search time dramatically and increasing the chances of saving lives," said Fire Chief David Estes.

Thermal imaging cameras use infrared sensor technology to see heat rather than light, restoring vision and guiding firefighters through dense smoke. Imagers not only help locate victims, but they also enhance firefighter safety by detecting impending dangers within the structure. Using this technology, firefighters can quickly pin-point the source of a fire and locate hot spots that might re-ignite, translating into reduced property loss.

Firefighters will also take advantage of other new rescue equipment. A rescue saw can be used for forcible entry, ventilation, and rescue. A portable gas monitor will be used to check for hazardous gases. A rapid intervention pack includes tools to rescue and provide breathing air to a downed firefighter.

The district will also purchase other basic firefighting equipment, such as nozzles and hoses, as well as radio equipment that will improve communications.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. These funds increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, new fire apparatus, emergency medical service programs, and fire prevention and safety programs in local departments.

"In this nation, far too many individuals lose their lives or are injured by fire. Among these victims are firefighters, who provide emergency response services to their fellow residents," said U.S. Fire Administrator R. David Paulison. "The nation's firefighters and American homes are safer today through this important grant program."

The Emmet-Chalmers Fire Protection District is a volunteer department with 17 firefighters and 5 trucks. From the West Adams Road station, the district covers an area west of the City of Macomb. The department responds to fires, accidents, assists hospital paramedics, and provides mutual aid to other area fire departments. Additional information about the district may be found on their web site at: www.ecfpd.org