Community Foundation helps to light the way
Grant pays for new lighting to protect first responders
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A close up of the equipment shows the new, high quality LED hand-held and tripod lighting.
LAMAR -- The Nittany Valley Volunteer Fire Co. saw a critical need and reached out to the Clinton County Community Foundation for help.
The result was an approved grant application for $5,000 to allow the volunteers to buy various lighting devices.
"We do respond to I-80 pretty frequently for vehicle accidents, fires and other types of incidents," explained Evan Graves, NVVFC's captain and trustee. "Many of our flashlights do not hold a charge, do not provide a strong light or simply do not work. This leaves our firefighters in the dark when responding at night or in enclosed spaces," he explained.
With the Foundation grant funds, the company purchased various lighting equipment, including Dewalt tripod lights, 12 right-angle flashlights and 14 lantern-style lights.
"The flashlights and lantern-style lights will replace many of our older lights which are either damaged or just do not work anymore, and also are not as bright as the LED lights we purchased. The tripod lights will replace our generator lights, providing a quieter incident scene and allowing the lights to be used in enclosed spaces. By providing our firefighters and EMS personnel quieter working environments, as well as brighter and more adaptable lights, we feel they can operate more efficiently and more safely while serving our communities," Graves said.
Like all volunteer fire companies, Nittany Valley raises a good portion of its own operating funds.
They conduct a fund drive, hold sportsman's raffles, accept donations, hold seafood buffet dinners and seek any grant they can get.
Meanwhile, the company is planning to celebrate its 75th anniversary with a special parade on Oct. 7.
All groups are welcome to participate in the parade. The fire company asks that participants contact the company by Sept. 27 by email at info@nvvfc.com or call 570-726-6884.
For more information on how you can support the Foundation, visit www.clintoncountyfoundation.org.