Portsmouth Takes Delivery of New Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus

The Portsmouth Fire Department has just taken delivery of new self-contained breathing apparatus they were able to purchase after securing a $142,500 grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.

The equipment represents a “significant upgrade from the current inventory of breathing apparatus,” said Portsmouth Deputy Fire Chief Michael P. O’Brien. “The new units, made by Scott Safety, are designed to provide increased protection against superheated toxic gases. The units are also designed to reduce the severity and frequency of strain and sprain injuries to firefighters during use.”

The new SCBA replaced units that are more than 10 years old and are considered obsolete by certifying agencies.

One of most significant improvements with the new SCBA is a firefighter tracking system. The units are equipped with a system that may be manually or automatically actuated when a firefighter is trapped or incapacitated. When activated, the system transmits a distress signal to a receiver device outside of the fire. The receiver then acts as a directional locating device, guiding rescuers to the downed firefighter.

This grant is second such grant Portsmouth Fire Department has received in as many years. Previous grant funding has been used to purchase various types of fire hose and protective equipment.

Portsmouth Fire Department’s grant writing efforts have been and will be geared toward mission critical items. Deputy Chief Michael O’Brien said ”our goal is to replace failing equipment and systems that are absolutely essential to the operation of a fire department; items that we cannot function without. With this strategy, we are able to improve our public safety mission capability while minimizing the tax burden to our Portsmouth residents”.

The Department’s grant success has been a team effort; Senators Reed and Whitehouse and Congressman Cicilline have thrown their support behind the Portsmouth Fire Department grant applications. The Portsmouth Town Council has continued its support of the Department’s efforts. Many members of the Fire Department contributed many hours to the achievements of the grant process. The Portsmouth Finance & Human Resources Department deserves recognition for their expert grant management support provided to the Portsmouth Fire Department. Truly a team effort by all!

Photo Caption: (left to right): Firefighter Dennis Canario, Jr., Firefighter Ethan Delaney, Lieutenant Brendan Martin