October 22, 2024 3:20 a.m.
The Kellogg Rural Fire District has announced that it is one of 100 volunteer fire departments across the nation to receive a $10,000 grant through the State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.
In collaboration with the National Volunteer Fire Council, State Farm has awarded $1 million in grants to help local fire departments obtain needed equipment to increase responders’ safety, effectiveness and ability to serve their community.
KRFD Public Information Officer Robin Loznak said with this grant, the district will purchase a state-of-the-art public safety drone. Loznak said the weather resistant drone will be equipped with thermal imaging to help pinpoint hotspots in structure fires, wildfires, and assist in potential search and rescue operations.
The Kellogg Rural Fire District response area encompasses about 110-square miles in northern Douglas County. The Umpqua River runs for approximately 41 miles through the district. Much of the riverbank has limited or zero visibility. The district often responds to boating, recreational and vehicle accidents in and along the river.
Chief Mark Bigart said, “Our firefighters work hard to protect our community – helping their neighbors on their worst day”. Bigart said, “It is critical that we are able to provide these dedicated firefighters with the tools and resources they need to do their job safely and effectively”. Bigart said thanks to the donation from State Farm and the National Volunteer Fire Council, the district will be better equipped and prepared so firefighters can respond at their best.
In addition, State Farm and KVFC will join Kellogg Fire for its annual community meeting on November 12th. The Kellogg community is invited to come to the Kellogg Springs Camp and Conference Center to meet local firefighters and learn about what the department does for the community. The social hour starts at 5:30 with dinner at 6:00 p.m. The program should begin at around 6:30 p.m. Space is limited to residents of the district. RSVP to: krfd2814@gmail.com