The Burlington Fire Department has been awarded a state public‑safety grant to purchase new rescue tools and protective gear. The funding will allow firefighters to replace aging extrication equipment and upgrade protective clothing used during structure fires. Officials say the improvements will enhance both firefighter safety and response capabilities during high‑risk incidents. Training on the new tools is expected to begin later this month, with full deployment planned by early spring. The department says the grant helps stretch local dollars at a time when equipment costs continue to rise.
