Two relatively small grants seem to pale in comparison with the Canandaigua Fire Department's overall operation, but the funding may end up helping save lives.
The department will receive approximately $3,600 for kits that aid in on-the-scene treatment of cyanide poisoning caused by smoke inhalation, according to Capt. Adam Palumbo, who is responsible for the department's fire safety education program.
Canandaigua is one of two agencies that received funding from the Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation, which provides resources, financial support and opportunities for Western New York first responders and their families. The foundation is named for the late Buffalo firefighter Jason "Jay" Arno, 37, who died in the line of duty March 1, 2023.
This lifesaving medication is a specialized form of B-12, which is administered with an IV and bonds with cyanide in the bloodstream and turns into a harmless compound that is flushed from the body, Palumbo said.
The kits could be used for victims or firefighters.
"Cyanide poisoning is super relevant, especially in modern fires," Palumbo said.
The smoke in a fire today contains the chemicals from synthetic materials in furniture, clothing and other everyday items, for example.
Grants fund Canandaigua FD training mannequin
Grant money received from the Mary Clark Thompson Foundation and the Sands Family Foundation will be used for a new mannequin that will aid in specialized fire and rescue training.
For just under $2,600 in combined funds, the department will purchase a mannequin that replaces the current one, which is about 25 years old, Palumbo said.
Firefighters use the mannequin for technical rescue and medical training, such as applying tourniquets and freeing victims trapped under or in vehicles, among other uses.
"It will be put to good use," Palumbo said. "It is definitely an item that is long overdue."
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat, Drink and Be Murphy food and drink column. He can be reached at mmurphy@messengerpostmedia.com. Follow him on X at @MPN_MikeMurphy.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Canandaigua fire department secures new safety gear
