FRANKLIN, Ohio -- Whether it's protecting the public or saving one of their own, firefighters have seconds to act when they hear an alarm ring. The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is with them every step, scoot and crawl of the way, supplying safe, breathable air amid smoke, flames and other hazards.
In Franklin, Franklin Township and Carlisle, however, firefighters might be running out of air. The department's equipment is aging, explained Franklin Chief Jonathan Westendorf, and a full complement of replacements will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
"Collectively, we're able to come together, pool our resources and make an application for federal funding," Westendorf said.
The grant for which the department plans to apply is highly competitive, based on merit and financial need. Westendorf said the uphill battle is one worth fighting, however, for the sake of better safety features for his firefighters.
"Honestly, it's vital," he said.
The application deadline is Feb. 2. It could take months or years for Franklin firefighters to learn if they have received it.
