Scottsdale, Arizona Trying To By Phoenix's Spare Firefighting Equipment

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- The Scottsdale Fire Department is talking with the Phoenix Fire Department about buying some spare firefighting equipment.

The city fire department is scheduled to take over Scottsdale's fire protection on July 1.

Rural/Metro has provided fire protection for the city since the company's creation more than 50 years ago.

But the private firefighting firm decided in November 2003 to discontinue its service in Scottsdale this year.

The equipment being sought ranges from protective clothing to breathing apparatus.

Scottsdale also is in discussions with Rural/Metro to continue using the company's communications system on a month-to-month basis if the city does not finish constructing its own on time.