The Addison Township Board of Trustees voted unanimously at their regular meeting Monday night to allow the fire department to purchase new turnout gear.
Turnout gear is the protective outer layer of clothing worn by firefighters during operations. The specifications for the gear have been recently upgraded to the new National Fire Protection Association, therefore increasing the cost of the equipment.
The Addison Township Fire Department will spend $7,515 for five sets of the gear, which includes a coat and pants.
The new gear has a lifespan, depending on the wear and tear of the user, of seven to eight years. The department currently has a number of members whose gear is in poor condition and cannot be repaired.