Streator’s Fire Department receives grant to replace all breathing apparatuses

STREATOR – Streator’s Fire Department received a grant to replace all of their breathing apparatuses. At Wednesday night’s council meeting, an “Assistance to Firefighters” Grant was accepted from the Illinois Department of Homeland Security for just over $143,600 for 20 breathing apparatuses including spare air bottles and a rapid intervention kit for a down firefighter. Fire Chief Gary Byrd says the department’s current breathing apparatuses are nearly 15 years old and reaching the National Fire Protection Association’s recommended end life. The new mechanisms will have advanced safety features providing firefighters the highest level of protection.