Depew Fire Department Receives Funding to Protect Firefighters from Toxins

DEPEW, N.Y. (WKBW) — Depew Fire Chief Brian Musielak has been with the volunteer fire department for 33 years and knows that when he and his crew fight fires, they are exposed to toxins.

“Whether it’s structure fires, dumpster fires, car fires and everything in between, they have extremely high levels of toxins that contain carcinogens that cause cancer,” Chief Musielak said.

After fighting so many fires, Chief Musielak said the equipment needs to be washed to get rid of the toxins it is exposed to, but the problem is their outdated washing equipment.

“The washing machine we currently have at this station is from 1996. It is difficult to find replacement parts every time it breaks down when we need to repair it. Also, we do not have a gear transmission at this time. On average, it takes about 12 to 14 hours to dry a set of gears and air dry it,” said Chief Musielak.

The Depew Fire Department is now receiving nearly $33,000 to purchase newer washers and dryers, thanks to federal funding.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Congressman Tim Kennedy and Congresswoman Monica Wallace shared this exciting news with Chief Musielak and Mayor Kevin Peterson Monday afternoon.

The fire department has over 140 members, making it one of the largest volunteer fire departments in Erie County.

“Firefighters like you already face extraordinary challenges and dangers in your daily work. The least we can do is ensure that you are not poisoned by your own equipment,” said Senator Gillibrand.

“Having this industrial washer and dryer to properly clean the equipment will allow that equipment to prevent these toxins from sticking to it,” Congressman Kennedy said.

“Firefighters are at a higher risk of cancer than anyone else… the last thing we want to see is them getting sick from it. So we have a duty to provide them with state-of-the-art equipment,” said Congresswoman Wallace.

“These funds will definitely help keep our firefighters healthier and prepared for the next call by keeping their equipment clean and fast and ready to respond,” said Chief Musielak.

Chief Musielak said he plans to purchase the equipment soon. The department wants to acquire a washer and three new dryers.