Pullman, Wash. (March 22, 2010) – It has quickly become one of the most important pieces of equipment any fire department can have, and now Pullman firefighters will be receiving one of the most modern, high-tech versions of the tool.
Leavitt Insurance Agency and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company are teaming up to award a $5,000 grant to the Pullman Fire Department to help fund the purchase of a new thermal imaging camera. The local Denny’s restaurant, on SE Bishop Boulevard, played a key role in directing this grant to Pullman.
The device uses updated technology to enable the department’s firefighters to “see” through smoke and darkness to quickly locate anyone trapped in a building during a fire. The camera can also play a major role in reducing property damage. With one in hand, firefighters can often locate hot spots inside walls and extinguish them before they spread.
“Thermal imagers used to be considered a luxury, but now they’re a necessity because they can be used in so many different ways,” said Fire Chief Pat Wilkins. “There have been many times when the only camera we had was needed by the other fire station, but was unavailable because it was already being used on another call. This additional camera will relieve a lot of that pressure.”
“Equipping these first responders with the latest life-saving technology is critical to ensuring the safety of people in this community,” said Charlie Page with Leavitt Insurance Agency. “We’re proud to be able to help in such a meaningful way, knowing so many people will benefit from the fire department’s use of this device.”
Chief Wilkins, Pullman firefighters, and executives from Leavitt Insurance Agency and Fireman’s Fund will come together for a public event where the grant package will be formally presented and there will be a demonstration of a thermal imager:
Date / Time: Location:
Tuesday, March 23, 2010 Pullman Fire Department
11:00 a.m. 620 S. Grand Ave.
Pullman, WA
The grant is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provided needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to more than 1,500 different departments totaling more than $25 million. Independent insurance agencies that sell Fireman’s Fund products, like Leavitt Insurance Agency, are able to direct these grants to support the fire service.
About Leavitt Insurance Agency
Leavitt Insurance Agency is a member of The Leavitt Group, founded in 1952, which is one of the largest insurance brokerages in the United States. It is an organization of affiliated independent insurance agencies with over 115 locations across the country and approximately $1.5 billion in annualized premiums. Leavitt Group affiliates are able to provide effective, sophisticated and creative risk management and risk transfer solutions to all types of businesses. For more information, visit http://www.leavitt.com/.
About Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co.
Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal and commercial insurance products nationwide. It is rated ‘AA-’ by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services. Fireman’s Fund is a member of the Allianz Group, one of the world’s largest providers of insurance and financial services. For additional information, visit www.firemansfund.com.
