The Independence Fire Department receives a donation from Molded Fiber Glass Companies and the Morrison Foundation.

The donation was for $25,000 to support the purchase of bunker gear for firefighters. Executives from MFG’s corporate office in Ohio were on hand for the presentation. IFD Chief Aaron Cook says the funds will be used toward new fire pants and jackets, ensuring that secondary sets are available at all times for firefighters on duty.

This allows the department to maintain extra gear in ready condition in the event primary sets are damaged. He says when firefighters return to the station following a fire, their gear needs to be immediately rinsed and placed in the gear washer, and the entire washing and drying process takes about 12 hours. This donation will help keep firefighters safe.