(Photo courtesy of Somers Fire Chief Carson Wilkinson)

When a fire alarm is received at the Somers Fire & Rescue Department, the goal of firefighters is to “suit up” in turnout gear within TWO MINUTES!

Firefighters must be prepared to address emergencies immediately upon arriving on scene.  That means all the turnout suits are meticulously organized and ready to go when a call is received.  Training and practicing the “suit up” drill is an ongoing important activity for all of our Somers firefighters.   Turnout gear protects the firefighter and must meet the National Fire Protection Association’s standards set in place to reduce safety risks and potential hazards.

Somers recently replaced aging turnout gear with a large percentage of it being paid for by a grant from the federal government.  The Somers Fire & Rescue Department received several helmets, turnout coats, pants, and boots.  The new gear is more comfortable to wear and the leather boots include replaceable heals and soles to help prolong the life of the boots.  All new gear is compliant with the NFPA standards.