North Bench receives grant funding, purchases equipment

BONNERS FERRY — North Bench Fire District received more than $15,000 in grant funding to purchase new and protective equipment for firefighters.

Where wildfire dangers are at an all-time high, the grants are being put to use immediately to purchase supplies that give firefighters a better chance to mitigate fires.

Idaho Department of Lands issued more than $5,000 to North Bench with the rural fire capacity grant. The funding allowed for purchasing first aid kits, personal protective equipment, fire hoses and accessories.

“We are grateful for the funds we have been awarded and look forward improving our response capabilities because of it,” Gus Jackson, North Bench Fire District Chief, said.

According to a news release, the equipment purchases will help with standardized loadouts, firefighter safety and increase efficiency in the field.

“North Bench Fire greatly appreciates the fact that out of 78 grant applications throughout the state of Idaho, our agency was chosen to receive full funding for our 2021 grant project,” Jackson said of receiving the grant from the Idaho Department of Lands.

Additionally, the Equinox Foundation awarded the fire district a $10,000 grant to purchase an equipment dryer, turnout washer and extractor.

The equipment will allow firefighters to properly wash their turnouts after being contaminated and lessening damage to the protective clothing seen using a traditional washing machine.

The equipment will help the firefighters quickly clean their gear and have a turnaround time that is much shorter than the current three-day process.

According to Jackson, the grants allow the department to expand and enhance its capabilities while also providing essential tools to keep the region safe.

Equipment has already been issued and placed on the response apparatus, and a positive impact is already noticeable.

“With prices for everyday items and specialized firefighting equipment on the rise, this yearly grant helps to fill a funding gap that is crucial to keeping our firefighters safe while ensuring that we have the proper tools and equipment for responding to wildland fires, ”Jackson said.