Seattle firefighters have added a new piece of equipment to their trucks -- something they hope will keep them safer.
The city has bought 14 bulletproof vests and helmets and have another 25 on order, according to the department.
Chief Harold Scoggins said the job of firefighters has evolved, with potentially violent situations becoming more common. Scoggins said the vests were bought earlier this year in response to a recommendation by the National Fire Protection Association that departments issue them to firefighters.
“Our goal is to not become part of the problem, but to get there and provide life-saving measures so hopefully people have a chance,” Scoggins said.
Scoggins said firefighters trained with Seattle police over the summer in how to use the vests and how to safely enter chaotic shooting scenes.