Enhance Firefighter
Safety & Effectiveness
Our Funding Priorities:
Enhance firefighter safety and effectiveness
Invest in ways to improve the health and wellness of the firefighters
Deepen the Department’s connection with the communities it serves
Water Rescue Jet Skis and Training
Seattle is a city surrounded by over 200 miles of shoreline, and the Seattle Fire Department is often called to assist individuals in distress on the water. One of the challenges facing rescuers is quickly reaching the location of the person(s) in danger. Pre-deploying specially outfitted jet skis at key points along the shoreline will improve the ability of Seattle Fire’s dive rescue team and surface swimmers to locate individuals and make a successful rescue.
$300,000 for four jet skis, jet docks, maintenance and specialized training
Thermal Imaging Cameras
A vital piece of equipment firefighters use is a thermal imaging camera (TIC). These devices “see” through heavy smoke, assisting firefighters in the search for trapped victims or to ensure their own safe entry and exit routes. The TIC is also an important tool for checking for hidden fire within walls or attic spaces, determining an accurate temperature of the environment prior to making entry and scanning for a liquid spill of a possibly hazardous material. Seattle Fire needs to replace failing and outdated TICs.
One-time goal: $275,000
Flash Hoods to Reduce Exposure to Cancer-Causing Carcinogens
Firefighters have a greater risk of contracting cancer due to their on-duty exposures to carcinogens. While all firefighters utilize various layers of personal protection while working in and around fires, the traditional flash hoods only protect their skin from high heat. Newer technology has led to the development of flash hoods that also provide a barrier to smoke and chemicals, reducing the wearer’s exposure to cancer-causing carcinogens.
One-time goal: $40,000 to help purchase two for each firefighter