Aldermen voted unanimously to recommend approval Jan. 14 of buying 20 new sets of structural firefighting turnout gear for $42,200.
The new sets of coats and pants of personal protective clothing meets the National Fire Protection Association standard, which is to retire fire gear 10 years after the date of manufacture, City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins said.
W.S. Darley and Company in Itasca had the lowest bid for the turnout gear, she said.
First Ward Alderman Michael Bruno asked if the old turnout gear gets reused.
Fire Chief Michael Antenore said if the turnout gear is under 10 years old and it’s the second set, it is used as an extra set.
If it’s more than 10 years old, Antenore said they donate it to needy fire departments in South America that have no turnout gear at all.
As the aldermen were acting as the Committee of the Whole, the City Council will take final action.