Through the very generous support and commitment of residents, local business and the Town of Boothbay, Boothbay Fire & Rescue was able to procure five complete sets of firefighter personnel protection equipment (PPE), which includes firefighting boots, pants, coats and helmets.

This new turnout gear, which replaces PPE gear that was between 10 and 18 years old, contains much improved materials, functionality and safety materials and fully adheres to the latest National Fire Protection Agency and OSHA requirements.

Firefighters performing interior fire attack work frequently encounter temperatures exceeding 800 degrees, and in some cases zero visibility in smoke and steam. Providing the latest PPE equipment not only protects firefighters but allows them to efficiently and effectively perform lifesaving work and fire suppression activities.

Additionally, the gear protects firefighters during complex motor vehicle extrications and other search and rescue activities.

Boothbay Fire & Rescue Chief David Pratt noted “We are truly fortunate to have such tremendous support from the community, local business and the town. Over the last ten years, fire departments across the country have seen a steady rise in the intensity of interior fires, which is driven by the increased use of plastics and other chemicals used in the manufacturing of everything from furniture, rugs, electrical equipment, and most recently lithium batteries, which are powering a range of consumer products, from bikes to cars. This PPE equipment is vital, and essential equipment for our frontline firefighters, who face very demanding conditions on every fire they enter. On behalf of the women and men of the department, who are volunteers and available for calls 24/7, this financial support is so greatly appreciated”

Boothbay firefighters also spent six months fundraising across a range of activities, from organizing a cornhole event which attracted 300 participants and financial support from 26 local companies to expanding bottle collection activities.