Fire Department Receives Escape System Bailout Kits

Sanford Fire Department staff training with CMC staff to use the bailout system at the former Notre Dame site.

Photos: Jordan Wilson

By Jordan Wilson, Communications Coordinator, City of Sanford

The Sanford Fire Department has been named a 2024 grant recipient by Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®, receiving $28,952 to increase lifesaving capabilities in Sanford. The grant will be used to purchase 55 Escape System Bail-Out Kits for all department members and will ensure our firefighters can quickly escape extremely dangerous conditions that may occur in today’s rapidly changing fire environment. These crucial safety devices are now a part of the turnout gear worn by Sanford firefighters and consist of heat-resistant webbing, an anchor hook, carabiners, and a descent control device.

According to Assistant Chief Brian Watkins, they are very grateful for this grant. “The new bail-out kits will fulfill a critical need within our department and allow our first responders to quickly exit dangerous or compromised buildings, typically through a window, especially when usual escape routes like doors or stairways are blocked or unsafe.”

The City Council voted to accept the grant at their meeting on Tuesday, October 15 and fire department staff have already begun training on the proper use of these devices with CMC, the company that makes these devices.

For the past 19 years, charitable donations have been the driving force behind Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation® supporting first responders and public safety organizations nationwide. The grant is part of more than $89 million given by Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation to support safety across the U.S. To learn more about Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation or donate directly, visit FirehouseSubsFoundation.org.