Owego, NY (WBNG Binghamton) The first line of defense for Owego firefighters is on a metaphorical back-order.
Firefighters here need new turn-out gear. That's the protective clothing they put on before going into a burning building.
It is designed to be water-repellant, reflective, and, of course, flame proof.
The old gear was damaged in flood waters and is filled with contaminants.
"We do have gear here that's on loan to us, and the insurance company has paid for that to be here, but at the same time, we need to return that gear back and some point and get our own gear here," said commissioner Earl Hartman.
They say the old gear is no good, and the only true test of its safety would be to destroy the gear.
The department is working cooperatively with the Utica National Insurance Group to get permanent replacements.
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