Trussville Fire and Rescue will soon implement new equipment to help firefighters battle flames and smoke.
The department received 15 new self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs). The packs are worn by firefighters to regulate and supply breathable air in a variety of situations. Sunbelt Fire won the bid to sell the equipment by offering all 15 apparatuses for $110,920.
The department currently has 60 – 80 outdated SCBAs. The last time the department replaced the SCBA packs, was in 2004. At that time, the equipment was purchased with a grant. Fire Chief Tim Shotts said the apparatuses only have a usable life of about 15 years.
“We’re replacing 15 of them because that keeps us operating,” said Shotts.
As the SCBAs age, they require more upkeep and sometimes cannot be repaired because parts are no longer available.