Fire grant earmarked for washer and dryer

A grant from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner will be used to purchase a washer and dryer specifically designed for firefighting turnout gear for the Rescue Hose Co. fire station.

The fire company received $11,509 in the annual grant program.

A heavy-duty household laundry unit is available now at the station, but it does not meet cleanliness needs and gear takes a long time to dry, according to Fire Chief Kevin Barnes.

Barnes said the better washing and drying equipment should help extend the life of the turnout gear.

"We try to make it last as long as it can," Barnes said, explain a fire coat and pants cost $2,600 to $2,700.

Office of the State Fire Commissioner grants can be used for facilities, equipment, debt reduction, training of members and training and educating the public.

“Funding for these grants does not come from general fund tax revenue, but rather state gaming proceeds. I’m happy that so many departments in the 90th District could be awarded grants to help them with the life-saving, important services they provide to our communities," said state Rep. Paul Schemel, a Republican whose district includes Greencastle and Antrim Township.

Other local recipients include:

Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue: $12,878 for fire and $9,192 for EMS

Chambersburg Fire Department: $14,248 for fire and $6,543 for EMS

Cumberland Valley Hose Co., Chambersburg: $11,410 for fire

Fannett-Metal Fire and Ambulance Co.: $13,426 for fire and $9,192 for EMS

Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department: $9,192 for EMS and $14,111 for fire

Franklin Fire Co., Chambersburg: $14,248 for fire

Goodwill Fire Co., Chambersburg: $8,098 for fire

Junior Hose and Truck Co., Chambersburg: $10,243 for fire

Marion Volunteer Fire Co.: $9,192 for EMS and $13,289 for fire

Metal Township Fire and Ambulance: $12,467 for fire and $7,777 for EMS

MMP&W, Mercersburg: $12,741 for fire and $9,192 for EMS

Mont Alto Fire and EMS Department, $12,741 for fire and $9,192 for EMS

New Franklin Volunteer Fire Co.: $14,248 for fire

Pleasant Hall Volunteer Fire Co.: $11,920 for fire and $5,237 for EMS

St. Thomas Volunteer Fire and Rescue: $11,509 for fire

Waynesboro Ambulance Squad, $9,192 for EMS

Waynesboro Volunteer Fire Department, $25,474 for fire

West End Fire and Rescue, Shippensburg: $14,111 for fire