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Study: Recession Harming Fire Departments
A new survey says the impact of the recession is being felt at fire departments.

They're facing budget squeezes because local tax collections are down, according to a survey published by Fireman's Fund Insurance Co.

* Sixty-three percent of Illinois fire departments have delayed replacing equipment
* Sixty-six percent have delayed purchasing new equipment
* More than half (51 percent) are increasing grant applications because of budget cutbacks.

Carl Churulo, the fire chief in Lemont, points out that a fire engine costs $400,000 to $450,000, and an aerial truck will cost more than $900,000; their life expectancy is 15 years. Turnout equipment for a firefighter is over $2,000, with a lifespan of five to eight years.

Another trouble identified in the survey that is related to economic conditions is that volunteer fire departments, which are typical in small towns and rural areas, have an aging force as young people gravitate to larger cities where the few job opportunities are.

The survey says Illinois departments generally are well-equipped: 92 percent of Illinois departments have a thermal imaging camera, and 93 percent have hydraulic extrication equipment to cut open a car to remove an accident victim -- though many need an upgrade because auto manufacturers are using lighter, stronger steel.

In the last five years, Fireman's Fund has given $1.6 million in grants to 100 fire departments in Illinois.

(Illinois Radio Network)
06 14 09 by Newsroom
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