The Scott Fire Department is getting much needed new gear through FEMA, after one of their own was injured on the job.
Last year a firefighter received 2nd and 3rd-degree burns while putting out a fire, and the Department realized they needed to get new gear-- but could not afford it.
"The gear we currently have wasn't in compliance with National Fire Association protection standards," says Chief Chad Sonnier.
They applied for the Assistance to Firefighters grant in the summer of last year, and recently found out that they will receive $75,000 dollars to get 50 new sets of gear.
They already have a few sets, which include helmets, jackets, pants, boots and bags.
The outfits have brighter reflective strips, stronger layers and a few additions, such as a safety pull device on the back of the collar, so a firefighter can pull another to safety if needed.
The new outfits replace the old 1996 gear.
Firefighters are grateful because they do not want to think twice about their outfits not protecting them properly.
"The last thing we want to worry about-- whether this gear is going to protect me in saving my life, and if I end up trapped this gear is what's going to save me," says Casey Roger.

Because of this grant, the city of Scott is saving money. Instead of their budget going towards new gear, it can pay for other needs like fire prevention classes and smoke detectors for the public.


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