Oyster Bay Fire Dept. recently received specialized personal protective equipment and metering devices issued by Nassau County Office of Emergency Management.
After the 9/11 attacks, President Bush authorized moneys for this type of gear through the Dept. of Homeland Security for local first responders. The equipment is then distributed through the local counties.
Received through OEM were eight radiological survey kits consisting of Geiger Counters, Radiological meters, and personal dosimeters. We also received twenty PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) packs consisting of a Tyvek class “B” Hazmat suit, and a military gas mask with the proper NATO filter for Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical exposure. Along with this equipment, OBFD was issued eight Scott Smoke Escape Hoods which consist of a small air tank, regulator, and a bubble-type clear plastic hood. These would be used by members not having access to a regular air pack for escape from a hazardous area.
Training has started on this equipment, being conducted by 1st. Asst. Chief Mantegari, and 2nd Asst. Chief Bellissimo.
Our sincerest hope is that, aside from training, we never have to use this gear.
