Salisbury Fire Department secures necessary funding for purchase of ballistic vests

SALISBURY, Md. – In an emergency response effort, safety is top priority.

At the Salisbury Fire Department, assistant chief, Christopher Truitt, said new ballistic vests will ensure just that for EMS.

“We never know anymore, but the more safety options that we have out there for our men and women, the better,” Truitt said.

When EMS springs into action, their own safety is often put on the back burner.
But now, said the new ballistic vests will allow EMS to prioritize civilian safety and their own.

“It’s one more step to keep our folks safe. It doesn’t cover every part of the body, but it covers the vital organs,” Truitt said.

For months, the department rallied to raise the necessary funds for the vests.
Truitt said thanks to the support of the community, they were able to raise $73,000 dollars for the purchase of 80 vests.

“Through some great donations through the Community Foundation and some other community partners, we were able to purchase enough protective equipment for everyone in the department,” Truitt said.

With the vests practically fresh out the box, the department is perfecting its Standard Operating Guidelines and underscoring that wearing the vest could ensure a safe return home.

“The more of us out there that can be safe, and kind of show that it’s not cumbersome, it’s a safety thing, take care of yourself so you can go home at the end of your shift or in the morning to your family, that’s the biggest thing,” Truitt said.