6/8/23

The Harrisonburg Fire Department recently purchased 29 sets of ballistic protection equipment designed to provide firefighters with needed protection during response to hostile incidents.

The ensemble consists of a vest, which will be equipped with critical life-saving equipment to stop uncontrolled bleeding and each vest and helmet are fully adjustable to accommodate the wearer.

Deputy Chief Stephen Morris says this type of personal protective equipment was not even a thought when he started his career 27 years ago.

The new ballistic protection will be carried on the department’s fire engines and ladder truck, as well as fire marshal and command vehicles.