The Leesburg City Commission OK’d a request Monday night from its fire department to purchase new extrication equipment.
The device, also known as the “Jaws of Life,” will be used on the new $458,760 fire pumper apparatus that was approved in August and already has been ordered.
Commissioners agreed to let Fire Chief David Johnson spend up to $34,690 for the lifesaving equipment that typically is used in situations like vehicle crashes where occupants are trapped. The new equipment, which is made by Holmatro, will be bought through Purchase Point Equipment Supply LLC.
The fire department sought the single-source purchase so that the new extrication equipment would match those on other engines. That way, the proposal says, personnel easily can move from one apparatus to another and be familiar with the equipment. It also eliminates the need for extra training, the possibility of firefighters being unfamiliar with the equipment and delays during an emergency situation, the request says.
