Medina first responders receive upgrades designed to enhance safety
MEDINA, Tenn. — One city’s fire and police departments get an upgrade designed to enhance safety and performance.
In Medina, safety is getting a boost thanks to a grant and some strategic budgeting. Both the fire and police departments are adding new tools to help first responders better protect their community.
“We were awarded $39,225 from the state of Tennessee and their Volunteer Fire and Equipment and Training Grant, which we were able to purchase [some] turnout gear–washer and dryer,” said Medina Fire Department Chief Mark Cleveland.
The fire department also received a new brush truck, fully outfitted for medical response calls.
“We also carry chainsaws, and we carry fire rakes and fire mats, as well as, like I said, medical equipment,” said Cleveland.
Across town, the police department is also adding new tools with upgraded tasers and firearms, flock cameras, two K9 units, and more.
“By having a department weapons program, we can put everything across the board. It helps us train better and it keeps our officers safer. It helps them to be able to do their job–when they interact with people–more efficiently,” said Interim Medina Police Department Chief Phillip Kemper.
The new K9 units are part of the department’s effort to expand community policing and strengthen its response in the field.
With new gear in the field, both departments say their first responders are better equipped to handle the call.
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