(April 20, 2020) The toxins that firefighters can be exposed to have become front and center in firefighter safety and a washer/extractor is what is needed to properly clean the turnouts worn during exposure. Chief Steve Krausmann requested $11,000 for a washer/extractor and he has generously offered to share it with three neighboring departments.
He wrote, “Firefighters routinely work in environments that deposit carcinogenic materials and blood borne pathogens on their personal protective equipment (PPE) during the performance of duties. The smoke from structure fires, vehicle fires and wildland fires contaminate the PPE with cancer causing compounds. During vehicle accidents and medical aids our PPE comes int contact with bodily fluids and blood borne pathogens. For the protection of the health of firefighters and the community it is important to thoroughly clean the PPE before being placed back into service. Our goal is to protect the health and safety of our firefighters and the communities we serve.”
I spoke to Chief Krausmann this morning to share the news of the grant. He shared his own news with me – he has a grandchild on the way! Congratulations to the family!
(June 16, 2020) The washer/extractor has arrived and Chief Krausmann sent in some photos showing them getting ready for first load. 
