Sept. 23--SAUK RAPIDS -- Fire departments have a new tool that will help put out some fires faster and more efficiently.
Sauk Rapids Fire Department has purchased an insulation vacuum system that is able to clear blown-in insulation from burning attics. Donations paid for the $6,500 system.
Sauk Rapids Fire Chief Tony Hommerding said insulation smolders and firefighters usually have to tear down ceilings to make sure the fire is completely out. But the new system allows them to vacuum up the insulation without further damaging the building.
The new system makes putting out attic fires easier and safer, he said.
Because of the area's mutual aid agreement, all the fire departments in the St. Cloud metro area will be able to use the new system.
City budgets are tight and capital improvement dollars are used to keep up fire trucks and equipment. So getting donations to pay for the system is important, Hommerding said.
Donations came from the Minnesota Fishing Museum, St. Cloud Golden Gloves Boxing, Rollie's Rednecks and Longnecks and the Sauk Rapids Fireman's Dance.
Copyright 2013 - St. Cloud Times, Minn.
