STATEHOUSE (May 30, 2024) – The Liberty Township Volunteer Firefighter Department and Eaton Volunteer Fire Department recently received new personal protective equipment thanks to a $10 million statewide investment supported by local legislators.
State Reps. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown) and J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) voted in support of the funding to supply sets of personal protective equipment including turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatuses to more than 60 volunteer fire departments across Indiana. Rowray said volunteer departments often operate with limited budgets and struggle to replace outdated equipment.
"As firefighters work hard to protect lives and property, it is important to do all we can to assist them," Rowray said. "This new equipment will provide much-needed support to volunteer fire departments across Indiana and locally, giving them better resources to perform their duties safely."
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, more than 70% of Indiana firefighters are volunteers. Prescott said volunteer fire service is essential, especially in rural communities, and the new funding prioritizes those departments with the highest need and oldest equipment.
“Firefighters put their lives on the line for the communities they serve and this investment gives them the tools to do their jobs safely and efficiently," Prescott said. "I'm thrilled to see our local departments being supported, which is crucial to ensure they are well-prepared to take on the dangers they face."
The Indiana Fire and Public Safety Academy, led by the Indiana State Fire Marshall and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, worked with MES Inc. to distribute the equipment.
In 2023, local legislators also supported a new law that allows counties to adopt a resolution for one or more township fire departments, volunteer fire departments, or fire districts and territories to receive up to .05% of their public safety local income tax. Prescott said this can be a great local option for sustainable funding and he hopes more counties consider it.
Visit in.gov/dhs to learn more about the PPE distribution to volunteer fire departments across Indiana.
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State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) represents House District 33,
which includes all of Blackford and Randolph counties,
and portions of Delaware, Henry and Jay counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown) represents House District 35,
which includes portions of Delaware and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
