We were informed that we will receive a grant to improve firefighter safety from the Leary Foundation. In 1999, a large fire at the Worcester Cold Storage facility claimed the lives of 6 firefighters from the Worcester Fire Department. One of those members, Jeremiah Lucey, was the cousin of actor Dennis Leary. The events of that night and the passing of his cousin led Dennis to create the Leary Firefighters Foundation to provide training and equipment to firefighters across the country.

The Leary Foundation has announced they are awarding the Hampstead Volunteer Fire Company (15) Seek 300 Thermal Imagers. These imagers are designed to be worn on individuals' self-contained breathing apparatus or turnout gear and are designed to aid in the situational awareness of each firefighter operating in hazardous environments. As the cameras are designed to aid in the movement and visibility of not only firefighters but also assist in locating trapped victims, this award greatly benefits not only our firefighters but the citizens we serve as well.

Over the next several weeks, the leadership of the Leary Foundation and the fire company will work together to finalize and fulfill the grant requirements, as well as procure the equipment. Once it is received, training will be provided, and the company will conduct a media event to formally announce and acknowledge the generous donation by the Leary Foundation. Any media inquiries can be directed to info@hampsteadvfd.org