From FireHouse.com…
Portland firefighters will soon have access to bulletproof vests while on the job.
The decision was spurred by a “changing landscape” and more calls that increase the possibility of firefighters being involved with aggressive patients and bystanders, according to Portland Fire & Rescue spokesperson Terry Foster.
Purchasing the vests was discussed by the agency’s safety committee and supported by Fire Chief Sara Boone, Foster said.
Many specifics still need to be worked out, such as when the vests will be worn, how many will be purchased and when they will be implemented.
However, the decision is fully supported by the firefighters union, said Isaac McLennan, vice president of the Portland Fire Fighters’ Association.
