COLLINSVILLE - Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner visited the Collinsville Fire Department on Tuesday and officially presented one of $2.2 Million Small Equipment Awards to 100 fire departments across the state.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

The Collinsville Fire Department said the grant will be used for vital safety gear. The fire department said this vital safety gear protects firefighters against thermal burns as well as gasses, vapors, and particulates found in smoke from modern furnishings and construction materials.

Article continues after sponsor message

“These products of combustion are thought to cause cancer in firefighters at a rate higher than in the general population,” the Collinsville Fire Department said in a release. “Firefighter protective clothing has a useful life of about ten years and about half of the Collinsville firefighters have protective clothing at least that old. Without the grant, budgetary restrictions would require the acquisition of the garments over a three-year period. With the award, the department will replace the gear by the end of 2018.”

The grants were also given to other area fire agencies.

The list included in Jersey County: QEM Fire Protection District with $22,750; and in Greene County: Carrollton Fire Protection District ($18,000); Roodhouse Fire Protection District ($21,760) and White Hall Fire Department ($22,000).

More like this:

Yesterday - Alton, East Alton and Godfrey Fire Crews Unite To Fight Massive 13th Street Blaze

Apr 5, 2024 - Godfrey Fire Protection District to Host Open House, Celebrate New Station

Apr 6, 2024 - Godfrey Fire Protection District Opens New Firehouse

3 days ago - Illinois State Fire Marshall Awards $4M in Grants to Illinois Fire Departments and EMS Providers

Apr 2, 2024 - Godfrey Fire Protection District to Host Open House at New Facility

 

If you have a news, human interest or sports idea, e-mail Danbrannan@riverbender.com or call or text 618-623-5930. Follow Dan Brannan on Facebook and on Twitter.

Print Version