Insurance company grant provides fire co. equipment

MANALAPAN — Thanks to the collaboration of a local businessman who lives in Manalapan and the Fireman's Fund Insurance Company (FFI), the Gordons Corner Fire Company will be receiving a grant that will provide for some of the newest and most effective turnout gear a fireman can get.

The Gordons Corner Fire Company has its headquarters on Tennent Road and provides fire protection in the northern end of Manalapan.

According to Danny Perry, community relations manager for FFI, the so-called turnout gear is what a firefighter must wear when responding to a fire. He said the fire company will be receiving several of the newest, most effective models.

Perry explained that the turnout gear protects a firefighter from exposure to chemicals, heat and flames. The gear includes a helmet with a face shield that protects firefighters from flying debris. Perry said the new gear, which meets National Fire Protection Association standards, will replace worn-out gear.

Perry said David Rosen, the owner of the Brooks Insurance Agency Inc., of Englishtown, partnered with FFI to help the Gordons Corner Fire Company receive an $8,954 grant for the new turnout gear.

Perry said FFI works with independent insurance agents and brokers such as Rosen, who sell FFI products, and uses their recommendations regarding which fire companies should receive FFI grants.

In a written statement, Gordons Corner Fire Company Chief Daniel LaRocca said, "It is critical that we have the essential, updated equipment so our firefighters can do their jobs safely and effectively. In terms of personal protection, a firefighter's safety is only as reliable as his or her turnout gear."

Rosen added, "This grant is a token of our appreciation to these volunteers who risk their lives to protect the residents of this community. Having updated personal protection equipment isn't a luxury - it is critical to the well-being of all firefighters."

Gordons Corner Fire Company President Rob DiTota said the fire company only became aware of the grant after Rosen alerted him (DiTota) in May about the availability of the grant. DiTota said the fire company was notified in June that it would receive a grant. The money was delivered at the end of July.

DiTota said the grant money will be used to purchase gear for between eight and 10 volunteer firefighters. He said the fire company has 70 volunteer members.

DiTota said, "On behalf of the fire company, I thank the FFI for awarding us the grant to purchase this life-saving equipment."

Perry said the grant package is part of a nationwide program called Fireman's Fund Heritage which is funded by the Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. He said that since 2004, Fireman's Fund has issued more than 1,000 grants for more than $18 million to fire departments across the country for equipment, training and educational tools.

— Kathy Baratta