The Smithfield Fire Department has been given approval to purchase 20 new air packs. The air packs will replace existing ones currently in use by firefighters but will be out of compliance by the end of the calendar year.
The fire department had budgeted $160,000 for the purchase this fiscal year. Bids were solicited and the low bidder was $154,582, which was under budget. The department will purchase SCOTT brand air packs, which Fire Chief John Blanton says provide the most compatibility and offer additional needed safety features.
Once the 20 air packs are received, the department will have 100 percent of their air packs in compliance with current safety and health regulations.
Rhinehart Fire Services of Asheville, NC was the low bidder.
