Luzerne Times

Salem Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 has successfully acquired new air packs for its firefighters thanks to a $106,740 grant secured by Rep. Mike Cabell (R-Luzerne) through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Cabell expressed his satisfaction in aiding the department, stating, “The department has applied for this funding for the past several years, with no success. So, I was more than happy to help with its grant request this time around. Because of the department’s current fiscal constraints and the high cost of firefighting equipment, this purchase would not have been possible without the state support.”

The grant enabled the fire department to purchase 12 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to replace outdated units. Fire Chief Lee Smith emphasized the significance of these new air packs, stating, “Getting these new air packs was very important for the protection of our firefighters, along with the industry and residents we serve.” Salem Township Supervisor John Fogg Jr., a former fire chief and volunteer firefighter, echoed Chief Smith's sentiment, acknowledging, “There’s no way they would’ve been able to afford it.”

Salem Township, with approximately 4,000 residents, is home to Talen Energy, which operates two nuclear reactors on its campus.

The new SCBAs are critical pieces of equipment that allow firefighters to breathe during emergency responses. Cabell, alongside members of the fire department, recently inspected the new gear, ensuring that the safety and preparedness of the firefighters are enhanced.

The successful acquisition of this essential firefighting equipment highlights the importance of state funding in supporting the safety and efficiency of volunteer fire companies.