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Gate City Bank presented the West Fargo (ND) Fire Department with 57 new state-of-the-art jet-style helmets to increase safety and protection on the job. This gift makes the department the first in North Dakota to utilize the new helmet style.
Firefighter helmets are crucial protective gear as they guard against heat, steam, cinders and falling materials. The helmets Gate City Bank donated feature a brimless design that mimics jet pilot headgear. It provides increased safety and protection benefits, especially when it comes to covering the ears, side of the face and back of the neck.
“Firefighters are committed to tradition, and today’s helmets haven’t changed in design much in the last 120 years,” said Chief Dan Fuller of the department. “Our department respects tradition. However, with Gate City Bank’s generosity, we’re able to embrace safety innovation to better protect our department.”
The helmets have been certified by the National Fire Protection Association as meeting thousands of performance standards for structural firefighting and technical rescue. Additionally, they can be adjusted to properly fit individuals to increase comfort.
“Gate City Bank is committed to providing a better way of life, and is extremely thankful for our first responders and the difference they make in our community. We are proud to be donating these helmets, which will protect those who protect our communities,” said Gate City Bank Executive Chair Steve Swiontek.
Long term, the new helmets will also help West Fargo firefighters protect against a significant occupational hazard – cancer, which is now recognized as one of the major killers of both career and volunteer firefighters due to the carcinogens found within building materials and fire-retardant items. With the helmets’ ability to remove, wash and replace the soft goods, firefighters will be able to reduce their exposure to such carcinogens.
“With these helmets, our firefighters will have a better way of doing their jobs and protecting the public,” Fuller said. “We can’t thank Gate City Bank enough for this incredible donation with long-lasting benefits.”
The West Fargo Fire Department’s previous helmets that are still suitable for use will be donated to the West Fargo Rural Fire Department.
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