Geared up
Hartley firefighters get new bunker gear thanks to OCCF grant
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From left to right: Firefighters Matt Embrey, Jason Vial, Blake Sievert, Kevin Kline and Don Sadler received new gear thanks to the OCCF grant.
Five Hartley firefighters are looking fresh thanks to a grant from the O’Brien County Community Foundation (OCCF).
The local department was able to purchase new bunker gear for a portion of the squad at a cost of $9,000. The grant covered $5,000 of the total, while the rest was paid for with funds from the annual pancake feed and other contributions.
“We’re very appreciative to the community foundation and everyone who supports our pancake fundraiser every year,” said Fire Chief Brad Meendering. “Without their generosity, we wouldn’t be able to keep our gear up to date. Coats and pants are not cheap.”
The fire department’s bunker gear has a 10-year lifespan. The equipment is phased out on a schedule, and Meendering said the squad plans to replace five more sets in 2022. New helmets are also on the list.
