By Claire Sachse
claire.sachse@tryondailybulletin.com

On Oct. 15, the Green Creek Fire Department received a $99,180 Assistance to Firefighters grant to use for the purchase of new equipment. Congressman Patrick
McHenry (R-NC-10) presented the check to Chief Michael Herman.

Herman plans to use the funds to purchase 14 new self-contained breathing apparatuses, or air packs. These air packs include an air tank, face mask, and spare
air cylinders. The new Scott brand of air pack will replace the department’s aging and heavier air packs.

“The chief and his folks are well-trained, and they need the equipment that is in keeping with their training,” said McHenry. “I’m here to recognize the good work they do. They prepare for the bad things that happen to good people,” he added.

When preparing to enter a fire, firefighters typically wear 100 to 120 pounds worth of gear, according to Herman. The new air packs, scheduled to arrive by January, are approximately ten pounds lighter than their current air packs.

The new air pack face masks also allow for better voice communication by the firefighter and contain a visible light that alerts the firefighter to
low oxygen levels in the cylinder.

“Every fire department in the county uses Scott air packs,” said Herman, “so this purchase will allow us to replace our aging air packs and be compatible with other departments.”