Milton Firefighters Get Bullet Resistant Helmets, Vests

MILTON, GA — The Milton Fire Department has received a grant to provide firefighters an extra layer of protection while responding to active situations. The $19,000 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation will equip these first responders with bullet resistant helmet and vests, the city said Monday.

"Last year's incident in Las Vegas reinforced the need to protect our personnel during an active shooter situation," said Milton Fire Chief Robert Edgar. "We need to respond to the injured quickly and in doing so, we need to know our firefighters are protected."

With a rise in mass casualty events, there is an increased need for rapid triage and treatment of patients before law enforcement can completely secure the situation. More than $19,000 in custom equipment will provide the added protection firefighters need while responding in an active environment. The special design increases personal safety, but allows the flexibility firefighters need when providing emergency medical services to the injured.

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"We thank our donors for their contributions that help us provide these life-saving tools," said Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Executive Director Robin Peters. "Our first responders are heroes, and we want to be sure they have what they need to protect themselves, as well as their communities."

The grant funds provide helmets and vests for every front-line apparatus in Milton, including three engines, one ladder, a rescue and the battalion chief. Each firefighter will then have access to a ballistic vest and helmet while on duty, the city said.

"We have learned over the last decade that there are a number of times when firefighters have had to respond to an active-shooter situation," said Fire Apparatus Operator Johnny Gomez. "As a Milton firefighter, I appreciate this added layer of protection for us should we ever have to come in the line of fire."

Images via city of Milton