Fire Chief Edward M. Schepp is hoping his firefighters can breathe easier while on the job.
That’s why his department is in the process of applying for a Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant to pay for new vehicle exhaust systems at fire stations No. 1 and No. 2.
The estimated cost of the two exhaust removal systems is $110,000, with the 90/10 FEMA grant covering the majority of the expenditure. “It’s an exhaust removal system designed to remove diesel fumes from apparatus when they’re backing in or pulling out of the bays,” Schepp said. “Diesel exhaust is a known carcinogen, as well as a hazard for heart disease and other health issues.
“Right now, we basically just open up the doors and let the cross-ventilation vent the station.”
The fire chief said this is an issue considering the living quarters -- kitchens, family rooms, sleeping areas and offices -- are located adjacent to the apparatus floor.