OWLS HEAD, ME — SEPTEMBER 3 — The Owls Head Fire Department has received 14 new Scott self-contained breathing apparatus units, 14 Scott SCBA face masks, and 28 SCBA air bottles.This new equipment provides firefighters with improved respiratory protection for emergency operations.

The purchase of this equipment was made possible through a Federal Emergency Management Agency Assistance to Firefighters Grant, as well as donations from local residents.

The FEMA AFG program helps fire departments acquire necessary equipment and protective gear to enhance both firefighter and public safety.Items such as SCBA units, face pieces, and spare cylinders were among the types of equipment covered under this program.

The addition of this new equipment is a valuable safety resource for a department that continues to rely on trained volunteer firefighters.

According to the Owls Head annual town report, there were 44 fire department incidents during the 2022-23 reporting year, including fires, motor vehicle crashes, alarms, and mutual-aid calls.

The updated SCBA inventory also supports firefighter preparedness for incidents requiring respiratory protection.

FEMA guidelines recognize SCBA as essential personal protective equipment for fire service activities.