The Terre Haute Fire Department is upgrading its air supply equipment, replacing its decade-old packs with one hundred state-of-the-art air packs. Fire officials stress that safety equipment has a strict expiration date, with much of it only lasting ten years, even if unused.
The new X3 Pro air packs, although providing 30 minutes of air compared to 45 from the old bottles, are lighter and contribute significantly to firefighter safety. This change facilitates more frequent rest periods, reducing the risk of cardiac events and improving escape times if necessary.
The $1.4 million investment was funded through the department’s “EMS Non-Reverting Fund,” which consists of unspent funds from the previous fiscal year. Officials emphasize that the safety benefits justify the cost.
Additionally, the purchase includes Terre Haute’s first confined space air supply system, designed for safe operations in tight spaces. This equipment enhances the department’s capabilities to safely serve the community.
