Malden Awarded One of the Largest Fire Equipment Grants in Massachusetts

Photo Credit: City of Malden/Captain Keith Buchanan wearing the new high temperature face shield with voice amplication for improved communications.

The Malden Fire Department recently announced that their recent FEMA Fire Grant award of $275,000 has funded the purchase of new, much needed state-of-the-art equipment, and Fire Chief Jack Colangel said he could not be happier.

The grant was written by Deputy Chief Kevin Finn and Lt. Steve Loverage, and is one of the largest grants awarded in Massachusetts, according to officials.

Deputy Chief Finn said 33 state-of-the art breathing apparatuses were purchased for the department. Firefighters had been using breathing apparatuses two generations removed from enhancements in the new equipment.

The new self-contained breathing apparatus masks have alerting devices that signal when the air is low with high temperature resistant face pieces. Along with the masks are spare air bottles to help facilitate a quick change for the firefighters who must re-enter a burning building.

It was not the first grant the two men have ever written, but it was the largest amount of grant money the department had ever received.

“It’s a really good feeling,” Deputy Chief Finn said. “We knew we really need the equipment.”

Also purchased were state-of-the-art thermal imaging cameras used at all fires to help locate the center of the fire and any trapped occupants.

Rescue equipment including two rescue bags with equipment for firefighters to enter into a burning building to help rescue trapped firefighters known as RIT bags (Rapid Intervention Teams) were purchased as well. This critical equipment rescues firefighters who may be trapped in a burning building.

The grant, “... also helps with city funding as the federal grant will supply the finances that the City would otherwise have to allocate. Grant funding for fire departments at the federal level have been dramatically reduced and to receive such an outstanding award is a great tribute to the members of our Department,” Chief Jack Colangeli said in a statement.

Mayor Gary Christenson congratulated Chief Colangeli, Deputy Chief Finn and LT, Loveridge for their pursuit of funding for the vital equipment for the Malden Fire Department.

“Increasing the safety of the men and women who are on the front lines is a top priority and I’m grateful to their commitment to the safety of their fellow firefighters,” Mayor Christenson said.