Broomall Fire Co Gets $15K For Water Rescue Training, Equipment

BROOMALL, PA — Firefighters with the Broomall Fire Company will be better prepared to handle emergency incidents involving water thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

According to State Rep. Jennifer O'Mara (D-Delaware), the fire company was chosen to get a $15,000 grant for water rescue equipment and training.

The funds will help the volunteer department purchase dry suits. Dry suits help firefighters respond to standing and swift water rescues, as their typical gear is not suitable for these situations.

Funding will also help cover training from a certified water rescue training provider.

"As the daughter of a Philadelphia firefighter, ensuring that first responders have all the tools they need to effectively do their jobs and assist people in crisis is one of my top priorities as a legislator," O’Mara said. "I know this grant will be a huge help to Broomall Fire Company and strengthen their capabilities to respond to people impacted by flooding. This will be especially beneficial to residents who live along Darby Creek and need emergency services after a major storm."

President of Broomall Fire Company Jim Capuzzi thanked O'Mara for sponsoring the grant.

"Over the past several years Broomall Fire Company has seen a significant rise in calls to rescue people stranded in their cars or homes as a result of rising water during significant weather events. We lack the proper protective equipment to safely execute this type of rescue," Capuzzi said. "Oftentimes, our firefighters are forced to remove their firefighting gear and enter the water without any additional protection."