St. Marys Fire Department donates bunker gear to Firefighters Without Borders Canada

After receiving brand new bunker gear for all St. Marys firefighters, the Town’s fire department recently donated its gently used equipment to Firefighters Without Borders, an organization that provides firefighting equipment to departments in need around the world. The donated items included 20 sets of bunker gear, six sets of cold-water rescue suits and four firefighter helmets.

In 2022, Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson started the initiative with the aim of supporting the organization with their important cause as firefighting equipment is urgently needed worldwide.

The decommissioned bunker gear, water rescue suits and helmets are still in great condition and suitable for service, however they expire for use in Canada after 10 years.

“A number of places in the world often don’t have suitable equipment for their firefighters,” said Fire Chief Anderson. “We have the unique ability to be able to help support other communities in need while establishing a bond with our fellow firefighters all around the world in places like Honduras, Dominican Republic, South America, and the Philippines.”

Anyone wishing to donate or learn more about Firefighters Without Borders can do so at firefighterswithoutborders.org.

For more information on the St. Marys Fire Department, visit their website at townofstmarys.com/fire or contact Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson at 519-274-2340, ext. 201.

- 30 –

For media inquiries:
Richard “Andy” Anderson, Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief
519-284-2340, ext. 201 | randerson@town.stmarys.on.ca