Area fire departments get key equipment

People who live in the East County Fire Protection District or in Cape Girardeau and Scott City have better fire protection now.

All three fire departments now own $7,500 thermal imaging cameras. The cameras "see" through walls for up to about 200 yards, identifying hot spots quickly. The departments were able to save a little money by pooling their purchases.

Cape Girardeau firefighters already have used their camera, responding to an outdoor fire at Heartland Industries on Southern Expressway.

Acquiring the cameras marks the culmination of months of work for members of the local International Association of Firefighters. They visited several area civic groups to talk about the cameras and to collect donations.

Obviously, with four fire stations, the city of Cape Girardeau would like to have additional cameras available to crews. Firefighters are continuing to collect money.

To inquire about making a donation, call 334-3211.