In June, the Hugo Firefighters Relief Association used donated funds to purchase new hoods that are a key part of a firefighter’s structural fire fighting gear.

The hood is worn around the head and covers all parts of the head and neck that are not covered by the SCBA (Self-contained breathing apparatus) mask. It is key piece of equipment that firefighters use to stay safe during fire attack. Older model hoods are sufficient at helping protect against heat and flames, but do little to help block particulates and carcinogens. These new hoods are better rated for helping against heat as they have multiple layers and also protect against particulate hazards.

As we learn more about the potentially harmful contaminants found at the fire ground, the need for protection against those particulate hazards continues to grow. Studies have shown that the head and neck area are often most exposed to the unseen dangers of a fire. Wearing a particulate hood will give firefighters the additional protection they need; as we continue to learn about cancer awareness and approve our prevention of it in the fire service.

To read more about the hoods we purchased click here.

To read more about the growing cancer epidemic in the fire service click here.

Last month the Hugo Firefighter’s Relief Association was glad to donate the purchasing of food and drink items to send overseas to a group of deployed firefighters. Relief Association member’s went out and purchased the food and delivered it to Hugo City Hall, where Yellow Ribbon Network volunteers helped package and ship it.

The Fire Department overseas is comprised mainly of guys and girls from the 148th Fighter Wing ANG out of Duluth and some from a Pittsburg Air National Guard Base. Duluth ANG Fire Department has about 30 some members. Pittsburgh has about 20 some members. They have a few active duty personnel to round out the department from Alaska, West Virginia, Texas.  A  little over half of the 148th Firefighters there are full-time Firefighters back home. Departments they work at are : Duluth, St. Paul, St. Cloud, Mpls, Richfield, MnANG/Duluth Airport, Adberdeen (SD), and St.Paul.

All of the items purchased were specifically requested by the deploy firefighters and we are glad to help make their time away from home a little easier and hope they all make it safely home.

Last year the Relief Association purchased exercise equipment for firefighter use at the station. Promoting exercise and wellness is a key element to help firefighters stay ready for the rigorous requirements at times during performance of their duties.

Some of the equipment purchased included:

• Various Kettle Bells in different sizes
• TRX Training Suspensions Straps and Wall mounted bars
• Free Weights
• Training Sled
• Timer
• Weight Bag

To read more about an evolving health and wellness awareness in the fire service click here.