Hamilton County is trying to piece together nearly a quarter of a million dollars to buy new equipment for firefighters.

“It is only through the state and government that we are able to fund these large-ticket items,” said Fire Rescue Coordinator Henry Land. “Firefighting is not a money-making service. Anything that you buy for the fire service costs five times more than what you could buy at any local store and has a life of about 15 years. Then you have to either buy it again or do without it.”

The county needs $226,219 to buy equipment. The six fire departments have raised $3,000. The county has applied for a $168,219 Federal Fire Act Grant to pay for fire trucks and boats. And the county has asked the state for $55,000 to pay for 25 to 30 sets of firefighting coats and pants. There are 44 volunteer firefighters in Hamilton County.

An assistant to State Sen. Nancy Argenziano, R-Crystal River, said it’s too early to tell if the state will fund Hamilton County’s request. The Legislature is scheduled to complete the budget and adjourn May 5.

County Coordinator Bob Poor said this equipment, including the boats, is vital for storm emergency and flooding rescues because the county is impacted by three rivers. Without the new equipment, firefighters will be limited in their ability to protect and serve the community, he added.

City of Jasper Fire Chief Bill Trinder agreed that the equipment is desperately needed. “That’s what they need to do the job from accidents to burning buildings.”

For information about current state firefighting safety standards, go to www.firerescue1.com/firefightersafety/articles/16025/.