More and more firefighters are using bullet-proof vests because of the dangers that come with the job.
“We beat the police officers a lot of times,” said Deputy Chief Tim Wright, High Point Fire Department.
In addition to fighting fires and responding to medical calls, firefighters want extra protection for violent calls, especially ones that involve weapons.
Winston Salem Fire Department is currently looking into buy 140 vests for their personnel costing about $86,000. They’ve been researching and budgeting for the extra layer of protection for the past two years.
“We've chosen level three vests because it provides the best protection while still allowing our personnel to be very mobile and quick in those situations,” said Captain Chris Belcher with Winston-Salem Fire Department.