News
RB Fire Department Receives Thermal Imaging Cameras
MEMBERS OF THE Red Bank Fire Department joined borough officials and representatives from Quaker Special Risk and Fireman's Fund Insurance Company outside borough hall last Tuesday to mark the addition of two thermal imaging cameras to the borough's fire-fighting arsenal.
The cameras, which fire officials say are critical to successfully rescuing those trapped in burning buildings, were made possible via a $25,000 grant from Quaker Special Risk and the Fireman's Fund Insurance Company.
Thermal imagers use updated technology to enable firefightings to "see" through smoke and darkness to quickly locate anyone trapped in a bulidng during a fire. The infrared cameras, which detect heat, can also play a major role in reducing property damage. With one in hand, firefighters can often locate hot spots inside walls and extinguish them before they spread. "These cameras are critical to our rescue efforts in the community," said Red Bank Fire Chief Joseph Forgione. "We'll now have four of them, with the two others having been obtained through a separate donation awarded by Quaker Special Risk and Fireman's Fund in December, 2007. The additional cameras will allow us to be better prepared when responding to multiple emergencies simultaneously."
Grant funds are also earmarked for a "rescue strut system" that stabilizes overturned vehicles at accident scenes. This helps provide safety when first responders are extricating victims from vehicles.
"As a resident of Red Bank, I realize how vital the department is to the safety of the community," said Matt Walsh of Quaker Special Risk. "I know these tools will enhance the firefighters' ability to protect and serve."
The grant package is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman's Fund has issued grants to other agencies/brokers that sell Fireman's Fund products, like Quaker Special Risk are able to direct these grants to support fire departments.
