JC Fire Department to receive new equipment to clean breathing apparatus

The Johnson City Fire Department is the first fire department in the state of Tennessee to obtain a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) washer. The JCFD has specially designed washing machines (extractors) to remove hazardous materials from protective clothing. Now, the Department is equipped to remove dangerous particles from their breathing equipment and other hard to clean equipment. Fire Chief David Bell says investing the the washer is about prioritizing the health and safety of Johnson City Firefighters. The Last Call Foundation awarded the JCFD a grant to pay for half of the Solo Rescue SCBA Washer. The City matched the grant funding. The cost of the SCBA washer totals more than $34,000.