Donation to St. Marys Fire Department helps to obtain new equipment earlier than anticipated.

The St. Marys Volunteer Fire Department has received a sizable donation from a local couple to purchase much needed equipment. Equipment that was scheduled to be replaced gradually over the next four years can now be purchased within the next few weeks thanks to this generous donation.

Ron and Pat Wouters reached out to the St. Marys Fire Department, wishing to make a donation to assist the volunteer firefighters with equipment they might require. It was determined that specialized communication items and firefighter personal protection equipment were the greatest needs at this time.

“We are so grateful for this donation,” says Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “Being able to purchase this equipment ahead of schedule could mean the difference between life and death at one of our calls, it’s invaluable!”

Donations like this help the St. Marys Fire Department to perform their duties even more efficiently, enabling them to protect the community at an even higher service level.

 “Firefighters need to be able to communicate from within a hostile atmosphere to the outside fire ground,” said Deputy Fire Chief Brent Dundas. “The addition of new portable radios and headsets are expensive. Donations like this make a world of difference to firefighters and help us to perform our duties in the safest manner possible.”

“With the remainder of the money we will be able to purchase new bunker firefighter boots,” said Dundas. “These water and flame resistant firefighting boots are made of heavy duty leather with rubber soles that function well on wet surfaces. They are reinforced with steel or other tough metal alloy in the toes and soles to protect firefighters from sharp debris they might accidentally kick or step on.”

Other individuals or organizations that would like to donate to the Fire Department can send their contribution to: St. Marys Fire Department, PO Box 998, 172 James Street South, St. Marys, ON N4X 1B6 or contact Fire Chief Anderson at 519-284-2340 ext. 201.

- 30 -

Contact:

Richard “Andy” Anderson | Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief
Phone: 519-274-3939 | Email: randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca