PORT JERVIS, NY – The Port Jervis Fire Department placed in use new protective equipment it received and distributed as of last week.

Each of PJFD’s 41 interior firefighter traded their old SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) and kits for new ones on January 29, 2026, and attended a training session on the new equipment’s use.

PJFD Chief Anthony Fuller said as of last week the equipment had been distributed and will be used during any calls requiring such use.

The new 54 SCBA units were purchased with funds received by Port Jervis through a $533,087 U.S. Department of Homeland Security FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) which was awarded last year.

Fuller, sworn in as PJFD’s chief last month, said the AFG grant was applied for during the term of Past Chief Dominic Cicalese, continued by Past Chief Keith Brown, and completed during his term.  The highly competitive grant has been offered since 2001 to be used for prioritized equipment and training. PJFD’s grant was awarded as part of 2024 funding allocation.

Fuller stressed the need for this specific equipment, and its value to the department.

“The equipment we had in use was nearly at life’s end.  The new ones are good for 25 years, and are crucial to the department,” Fuller said.  “Instead of 4.5’s 4500 lbs. of air, the 5.5’s provide 8500 lbs. of air and give firefighters more time to get back out.”

The new SCBAs come with upgraded safety features and allow for up to 30 minutes of use at a time. They also come with additional built-in safety and warning features.

Fuller said the department is looking for additional grants and ways to fund future equipment purchases, such as radios and other items that may otherwise be difficult to fund.