By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews
WARSAW — Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory has received a $3,000 grant from the Kosciusko County Community Foundation for the purchase of eight thermal imaging cameras.
WWFT Firefighter Miles Waters asked for the territory board’s approval to enter a grant agreement with KCCF for the cameras during a July 5 board meeting. The eight cameras will assist firefighters in finding victims, exits through smoke, car leaks, and hidden fires.
The remaining cost for the cameras, totaling $1,271.92, will be covered by the territory.
WWFT’s board approved the territory entering the grant agreement.
Also during the meeting, the board learned WWFT’s C.A.R.E.S. program was awarded $376,231 through the Opioid Settlement Match grant funds. EMS Chief Chris Fancil said the territory initially applied for $137,816. These monies will allow for the C.A.R.E.S. program’s expansion by adding another employee, paying for an additional staff vehicle, and assisting with additional training.
Fancil told the board WWFT is still waiting for the state to present a contract regarding the funds.
In their summaries to the board regarding the number of calls for service in May, Lutheran EMS Director Alicia Mediano and WWFT Chief Brian Mayo both noted an uptick in runs. However, both attributed this to an increase in runs typically seen in the summer months.
The board’s next meeting is at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1.