A $2,000 grant from the Sierra Pacific Foundation will be used by the Hoquiam Fire Department to purchase wildland firefighting protective equipment.

”The firefighting equipment will provide enhanced protection for our personnel when engaged in prolonged fire suppression activities involving timber, brush, and grass fires,” said interim Hoquiam Fire Chief Tom Hubbard.

Gear will include wildland fire specific items like helmets and long-sleeved DuPont Nomex shirts — they are lightweight, comfortable and deliver heat and flame protection for firefighters.

“New guidance has been adopted that recommends wildland firefighter clothing be worn instead of structural gear to prevent heat exhaustion and increase mobility,” said Hubbard.

Hubbard said the department “deeply values and appreciates the ongoing support we have received from the Sierra Pacific Foundation, specifically Carolyn Emmerson Dietz, President, and Lisa Perry, Community Relations Manager for Sierra Pacific Industries.