Cost of firefighting gear climbing higher

By Craig Westcott

Kitting out firefighters isn’t cheap, and it looks to become even costlier.
The Town of CBS last month approved standing offers with two companies, First Response Supply, and Safety Source Fire, to cover personal firefighting wear ranging from gloves to bunker boots.
Under the contract, the cost of protective hoods will go from $218 this year to $239 next year, while helmets will increase from $469 this year to $516 in 2026.
Similarly, replacement visors for the helmets that sell for $163 this year will increase to $180 next year, and bunker gear, consisting of a jacket and pants, will move from $4,878 a set this year to $5,365 next year. Bunker boots that cost $355 this year will have a tag of $390 on them next year.
“This is equipment that is used by our fire department (on an) ongoing (basis),” said Deputy Mayor Andrea Gosse introducing the motion to approve the agreements.
KD Pratt was the third bidder vying to supply the gear but did not land any of the business.