2009 Department of Homeland Security Assistant to Firefighters Grant

1. 2009 Department of Homeland Security Assistant to Firefighters Grant HSFD Request this year 10 Complete Sets of PPE/Turnout Gear, Turnout Gear Extractor (Washer), & Dryer.

2. Goal • To purchase turnout gear for 10 Firefighters that did not receive gear during the 2006/07 AFG grant PPE purchase. • To purchase the proper washing & drying equipment to properly clean & maintain our existing gear & new purchases to get the gears full life expectance. • Will set the ground work for HSFD not having to purchase turnout gear for the next 8-10 years therefore freeing up funding for other purposes. • Reduce stress load on current gear washing system. • Will allow HSFD firefighters to have the top of the line, safest personnel protective equipment available.

3. History Prior to 2001, HSFD has always made mass purchases of turnout gear for all personnel, regardless of training certifications, at one time every 5-7 years. • 2007-Gear for 12 Firefighters on an AFG & Federal Forestry Grant. • This gear will be due for replacement between 2012-2014 at current standards. • 2002-Gear for 14 Firefighters (Only those whom were S.C. Fire Academy/OSHA certified.) • This gear due for replacement now. • A policy was implemented that when new recruits successfully completed the OSHA FF course, they would receive a new set to encourage new members to get certification. • 2000-Received 10 sets (sub-standard gear) donated by Springs Industry. • 1996-Gear for 20 Firefighters • 1991-Gear for 20 Firefighters • 1986-Gear for 20 Firefighters

4. Pattern • HSFD is only getting 50-60% lifespan of their gear before replacement. • Having to replace gear an average 5-7 years vs. the 10 year predicted life span. • Steps already taken • Require Firefighters to keep primary gear at station in ventilated locker. • Require Firefighters to wash gear when dirty. • Have to use a residential washer.

5. Game Plan • Submit an AFG grant in April 2009 for 10 new sets of gear, manufactured recommended washer & dryer at a 95/5 matching funds. • If successful, immediately purchase gear for firefighters that did not receive gear in the 2007 AFG grant purchase. Obtain & install Extractor & forced air dryers in the Utility room. • Require firefighters to wash gear after each use. (Where contact with fire and/or containments) With new equipment, gear can be cleaned, dried, and put back into service within 4 hours. • This will allow HSFD to not have to budget any funds for any mass gear purchases until 2017 – 2019. (with the exception of an occasional replacement or special item) • Thus freeing up funds to be put towards staffing purposes. (Same game plan as apparatus purchases)

6. Cost • 10 Complete sets of top of the line Personnel Protective Equipment $22,850, 1 – 3/Phase 30lb Extractor $9,950, 2 Forced Air Gear Dryers $500. Total Project Cost of $33,300 • Amount requested from FEMA(DHS) $31,635 • Amount needed by HSFD by the end of the grant period $1,665 • This is 1/2 normal annual budgeted amount for PPE for one year • Make the matching funds part of the 2009 Picture Drive. (Historically, donations are higher when they are towards a specific community improvement project)

7. Consequences if we do not apply for 2009 AFG grant. • HSFD will ALWAYS have to purchase turnout gear & will have to pay full price. PPE is a “Must have to operate” expense for the fire district. Failure to apply will require the community to have to pay for gear out of the general budget vs. a 5% matching grant. • AFG Grants will most likely cease within the next 1 – 3 years. • Average life span for a set of gear is 10 years if properly maintained. HSFD historically has averaged 5-7 years. • HSFD will have to purchase gear as early as 2012 and then again in 2017. • Cost of gear increases approx. 10% each year.