The London Fire Department has been awarded two grants from the Kentucky State Fire Commission totaling $11,000. The Department continues to actively seek grant opportunities to better serve the citizens of London and neighboring fire departments that they provide mutual aid to.
Although firefighters wear turnout gear for protection from intense heat up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, toxic chemicals can still penetrate through and remain on the gear following exposure. Many of the toxins are cancer-causing agents and gear must be frequently washed. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) standard for retirement for turnout gear is 10 years. The London Fire Department was able to replace approximately four sets of gear with the $10,000 awarded. Full turnout gear includes coats, pants, helmets, boots, gloves, and hoods.