Firefighters receive new equipment

The C.M. Meiers Co. of Woodland Hills and Fireman's Fund Insurance Co. have donated more than $33,000 to the Ventura County Fire Department for the purchase of mobile communications equipment that will make information immediately available to the public and media during emergencies.

Satellite telephone and television equipment, along with computer, fax, copying and cellular technology, has been installed in one of the department's emergency vehicles to create a mobile communications center for the public information office.

"This equipment provides up-to-the-minute reports from the scene of an emergency, and that could save lives," said Capt. Barry Parker. "Ventura County has many canyons and remote areas where cell service can be spotty, and even radio transmissions can be difficult. With the addition of satellite capability, we can now be more certain of getting the word out quickly on evacuations, road closures and dangerous fire conditions."

Other equipment in the vehicle allows for television reception and can also send and receive information such as maps, weather updates and photos.

The grant package that made the purchase of the equipment possible is part of a nationwide program called Fireman's Fund Heritage, which is funded by Fireman's Fund Insurance Co. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments.