2 grants help get new fire equipment

RUSSELLVILLE — A new LUCAS chest compression device will ensure the Fire Department has the most up to date technology, and a virtual reality training system will help the department train employees at local industries on how to use a fire extinguisher.

The Fire Department will use two grants from the Northwest Resource Conservation & Development Office to purchase the items, City Clerk Belinda Miller said.

The city will use a $5,500 RC&D grant and $15,615 in city funds to purchase the device, Miller said.

A $7,000 RC&D grant will be used for the Bullex QuickFire XR Extinguisher Trainer, but the city will contribute another $7,295 toward the purchase, she said.

Fire Marshal Justin Green said the LUCAS Device is used to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Green said the department has two of the devices, but they’re older.

“The ones we have right now are almost at the end of their serviceable life,” he said.

He also said there have been situations when firefighters had to utilize both LUCAS Devices they have. The department also frequently receives calls from other departments that need the devices.

Green said the QuickFire XR will allow him to safely train employees at local industries in the proper use of fire extinguishers.

Green said he needs gasoline, diesel fuel and road flares to set up scenarios to train employees. It’s smoky, messy and has to be done outside, he said.

The Quickfire XR resembles a small fire extinguisher and includes a virtual reality headset. There are five different simulations including a warehouse fire, and a commercial break room/trash can fire that can be used to train employees on different types of fires.

“I don’t have to carry gas or diesel in the back of my truck,” Green said. “Logistically, it’s much better.”