Outdated fire gear to be donated

The Oconto Falls City Council recently voted unanimously to allow the Oconto Falls Fire Department to dispose of old and outdated fire gear. City Administrator Vicki Roberts said the city is not allowed to sell the equipment but may donate the items. The equipment that can’t be used for fire fighting might be usable by ambulance services or other agencies for traffic control. Fire Chief Tim Magnin was concerned that residents might think throwing away the equipment was wasteful, but he said the gear has expiration dates for recommended length of use, and some items, such as firefighters’ jackets and pants, are outdated and damaged. The Oconto Falls Fire Department will keep some gear on hand for use by recruits interested in joining the department. Once a recruit has made a commitment to the force, the department will purchase new gear, Magnin said. For the remainder, Magnin will seek out interested parties before disposing of it.