All firefighters in Marion County will soon receive a second set of bunker gear to better protect them from the hazards that they face on a daily basis.
During a meeting held on Tuesday, August 6, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved a budget request, in the amount of $604,592, for the purchase of 170 sets of bunker gear.
Each set of bunker gear includes a coat and a pair of pants.
In April 2023, the commissioners approved a contract with Municipal Equipment Company, LLC, to purchase Lion Janesville V-Force Bunker Gear for MCFR firefighters and EMS personnel. However, due to the rising cost of bunker gear, additional funds in the amount of $604,592 were needed to complete the purchase.
According to MCFR, the second set of bunker gear will allow its firefighters to immediately replace any gear that has been damaged or contaminated. This will help reduce their risk of long-term health issues, which can be caused by frequent exposure to hazardous substances or carcinogens.
In addition, the second set of bunker gear will also reduce the wear and tear on each gear set, extending the overall lifespan.
Marion County Fire Chief James Banta is appreciative that his firefighters are receiving a second set of bunker gear, and he referred to the purchase as “a critical step in our ongoing cancer prevention initiatives.”