Fire Department Accepts $10,000 Liberty Mutual Grant

Wilmington Fire Chief Ed Bradbury knew his department . But it became official Monday night when he got his hands on an oversized check from Liberty Mutual.

The town outworked others in its size category and won a second straight fire safety grant. Monday at the Board of Selectmen meeting, Bradbury accepted the check and talked about the excitement of being able to purchase new equipment.

“I think it’s amazing that we’ve had folks participate to the level they have,” said Bradbury. “We’ve had quite a bit of feedback from just the residents. People are more aware now and anything that puts fire safety in peoples’ minds is important.”

With the $10,000, Bradbury and the Wilmington Fire Department will purchase a LUCAS chest compression system he expects will help save laves. Last year the department purchased thermal gear.

“This just gives us a whole added dimension to make the outcome (of a rescue) even better,” said Bradbury. “Compressions are the key, so this will really do that and it helps us when we transport victims as well.”

Wilmington was not leading with about a week left in the contest, but residents stepped up in the closing days and helped push the town over the top.

Winning another grant was important to Bradbury, but he also said that the overall concept of the competition was the critical aspect.

“The quiz you take is informative, and it does make you think. Getting even just one person to think the right way when it matters is all that counts,” said Bradbury, who said with a laugh that he’s already looking forward to next year’s contest. “Absolutely. We’re ready to go.”