January 25, 2016 - Album - A great time was had at the Center Volunteer Fire Department's (VFD) annual bingo fundraiser which was held Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the John D. Windham Civic Center. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to purchase new bunker gear for the firemen.
An average price for a set of bunker gear is $1,600. The set includes pants, coat, helmet, boots, gloves, and nomex hood. The protective fire-resistant garments or Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) are worn by firefighters while fighting fires and sometimes while performing other dangerous activities. It is also referred to as turn-out gear. The gear expires after 10 years from the manufacture date. Additional essential equipment are air packs which cost around $2,000 each. The air pack does not expire; however, they are inspected yearly.
The fire department purchased bunker gear 10 years ago through grant assistance and the equipment expires soon. The volunteer fire department has 16 firemen at this time and the department is working on replacing the gear as funds allow.
Rodney Mathews, Chief of Center VFD said, "We really appreciate everyone for coming out to support us and we want to thank all of the businesses that donated to the department for our fundraiser."
Winner of the $500 black out was Matthew Rafferty. The last game winner of the $1,000 blackout was Lizann Burke and grandson Jaxon Goings.
