Astoria, OR — The city’s fire department is grappling with outdated equipment, as the breathing apparatuses used by firefighters have become increasingly difficult to maintain. At a City Council meeting on Monday, Hilary Norton, the city’s finance director, highlighted the growing concern that the vital life-saving gear, now 20 years old, is nearing the end of its serviceable life.
The aging equipment, which plays a crucial role in ensuring firefighters’ safety in hazardous environments, has reached a point where replacement parts are no longer being manufactured, making repairs increasingly difficult and costly. As a result, the department is finding it harder to keep the apparatuses in proper working condition, potentially compromising the safety of firefighters on the front lines.
“We are facing a situation where the breathing apparatuses, which have served us well for two decades, are becoming obsolete,” Norton said during the meeting. “The parts we need to maintain them are no longer available, and replacing them is becoming a serious challenge.”
According to Norton, the cost of replacing the entire fleet of breathing apparatuses is significant, but the need for new, reliable equipment is urgent. Without modern gear, the fire department risks encountering equipment failures during emergencies, which could endanger the lives of firefighters and hinder the city’s response to fires and other disasters.
Fire Chief Robert Martinez echoed Norton’s concerns, stressing the importance of having up-to-date equipment. “Our firefighters trust their breathing apparatuses to protect them in dangerous situations. The safety of our team members is non-negotiable,” he said. “We must invest in new equipment to ensure they are fully prepared to handle the challenges they face on the job.”
Astoria’s fire department is not alone in facing the dilemma of outdated firefighting equipment. Many smaller cities across the country are struggling with the high cost of maintaining or replacing aging gear, particularly as manufacturers phase out older models and parts. In response to the issue, some departments have turned to fundraising or grants to help cover the costs of new equipment.
During the meeting, Council members discussed potential funding options, including seeking grants from federal or state agencies or using reserve funds to cover the replacement costs. While no final decisions have been made, officials emphasized that securing new breathing apparatuses is a top priority.
“We will continue to explore every avenue to ensure our firefighters have the tools they need to do their jobs safely,” said Mayor Lisa Foster. “Their safety is our first concern, and we are committed to finding a solution.”
As the city weighs its options, residents and city officials alike are hopeful that a solution will be found soon, ensuring that the Astoria Fire Department remains equipped and ready to protect the community.
