Fire departments across Southwest Michigan are receiving grants from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to purchase new gear.
The state says about $15 million is being awarded to 187 fire departments around Michigan so they can purchase an additional set of turnout gear for full-time career firefighters, enhancing their safety and readiness.
Included among the grant recipients are the Benton Township Fire Department, receiving $66,000 in total.
The Bangor Township Fire Department is receiving $45,000; the city of Niles is getting $35,000; Covert Township has been awarded $20,000; Niles Township is getting $20,000; South Haven is receiving $55,000; and Dowagiac has been awarded $3,400.
The gear being purchased by the departments with the grants includes coats, pants, and boots. Fire agencies say firefighters are often called on consecutive runs, leaving them little time to decontaminate their gear. Having more of it will help them protect themselves from hazardous chemicals.
