Shown with some of the new equipment are EMA Director Peggy Clark (left) and East Liverpool city firefighter Antony Cumo. (Photo by Jo Ann Bobby-Gilbert)

EAST LIVERPOOL — The East Liverpool Fire Department regional hazmat team was recently awarded nearly $100,000 to upgrade its respiratory equipment.

The grant, written by the city fire department, was awarded through the county Emergency Management Agency (EMA) from the state’s Homeland Security Grant Program.

The hazmat team responds throughout Columbiana County when requested by local fire departments, and this equipment upgrade will enhance responders’ safety, according to East Liverpool fire Chief Bill Jones.

Included in the purchase were eight CBRNE style self-contained breathing apparatus, 16 spare SCBA air cylinders, four supplied air escape cylinders, one supplied air breathing cart with 600 feet of breathing hose, and 30 SCBA face pieces, which will enable every team member a personal face piece.

Officials stated this award will bring the hazmat team completely up to date with OSHA respiratory guidelines, state haztac required list and respiratory standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Agency.