December 10, 2008
PITTSBURGH BUREAU OF FIRE TO RECEIVE GRANT FOR ESSENTIAL RESCUE EQUIPMENT
$25,000 Donation to Purchase Forcible Entry Tools to Aid Firefighters When Entering Burning Buildings
PITTSBURGH (December 1, 2008) – When entering burning buildings, it’s critical firefighters have updated equipment to do their job effectively and efficiently in order to help save lives. Now, thanks to a $25,000 grant, the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire will be purchasing 17 new forcible entry tools, allowing its firefighters to force their way through all types of doors. These tools will replace outdated models.
Pittsburgh-based Allied Insurance Brokers, Inc. and Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company are partnering to award the donation.
This specific forcible entry tool, often referred to as a Hydra-Ram, is a single operator, self-contained hydraulic “spreader.” When its handle is pumped, the tool can quickly spread open a locked door.
Various fire apparatuses across the city will be outfitted with the new tool. In addition, one of the tools will be assigned to the bureau’s training academy so all city fire companies can train with the new model.
“Our brave men and women who risk their lives for others now have the best tools to get the job done,” said Fire Chief Darryl Jones. “These 21st century tools will allow our firefighters to open doors faster and rescue victims before it may be too late.”
“Through strong partnerships and a commitment to public safety, we are renewing the promise to our firefighters and residents, giving the bureau’s firefighters the equipment they deserve,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.
Executives from Allied Insurance Brokers and Fireman’s Fund will present the grant check to Mayor Ravenstahl and Chief Jones, who will showcase and discuss usage of the forcible entry tool.
“Having my business operations in Pittsburgh, I think it’s important to give back to the community in a tangible way,” said Marty O’Brien, president of Allied Insurance Brokers. “I know the tools purchased with the donation will ultimately allow the bureau to better serve the residents of Pittsburgh.”
The grant package is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to over 1,100 different departments totaling more than $20 million. Independent insurance agencies/brokers that sell Fireman’s Fund products, like Allied Insurance Brokers, are able to direct these grants to support fire departments.
About Allied Insurance Brokers, Inc. Founded in 1982, Pittsburgh-based Allied is a nationwide niche property & casualty insurance broker focused exclusively on serving the equipment rental and party goods, scaffold, crane, wood products industries and human services organizations. This focused approach creates a wealth of benefits for their clients. As a full-service organization, Allied offers wholesale insurance for independent agents and brokers and in-house underwriting capabilities. For more information, please visit www.alliedinsbrokers.com.
About Fireman’s Fund Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal, commercial and specialty insurance products nationwide. It is rated 'AA-' by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services. Founded in 1863 with a mission to support firefighters, Fireman’s Fund continues this effort today through it national philanthropic efforts. Fireman’s Fund is a member of the Allianz Group (NYSE: AZ), one of the world’s largest providers of insurance and other financial services. For more information, visit www.firemansfund.com.
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