U.S. Silica donated $7,315 to Lamesa Fire Rescue in Texas for the purchase of specialty equipment to outfit a confined space entry and high-angle rescue trailer. The equipment is necessary for a firefighter to safely enter a confined space and perform a rescue in the event of an emergency.
U.S. Silica also hosted firefighter drills and training sessions at its Lamesa frac sand mine and plant.
“U.S. Silica is thankful to the courageous first responders who are willing to risk everything to save lives in the event of an emergency,” said U.S. Silica Lamesa Plant Manager Steve Witt. “This donation is about making everyone in our community safer, from those of us who live and work in Dawson County to the firefighters who brave life-threatening conditions to save others.”
Confined space rescues require special equipment and training, as first responders must navigate dark, tight and often confusing areas. The trailer, which is able to quickly reach the site of an emergency in Dawson County, contains specialized equipment that will help rescuers assess the situation, descend into confined spaces, breathe safely, and perform rescue operations.
The donation helped Lamesa Fire Rescue purchase equipment such as rescue harnesses, supplied air respirators, a 4-gas monitor, escape packs with air hoses, a confined space ventilation fan, a generator and LED lighting with an adjustable tripod stand.
“In any emergency situation, every second counts, and having the right equipment on hand to quickly execute a rescue plan is critical to saving lives,” said Lamesa Fire Chief Larry Duyck. “We’re grateful to U.S. Silica for donating the funds for this equipment and offering their facilities for confined space training. The generosity of their actions is a gift not only to Lamesa Fire Rescue, but to anyone who might need our assistance.”