Slovan VFD adds specialized rescue equipment
Volunteer first responders at the Slovan Volunteer Fire Department in Smith Township now have increased specialized vehicle rescue capacity thanks to a donation from a local company.
Langeloth Metallurgical Company, a northern Washington County-based molybdenum products manufacturer, contributed over $40,000 to allow the Slovan VFD to acquire an Interstate/Motorway Vehicle Stabilization Kit.
This apparatus is designed to allow firefighters to lift and secure large commercial vehicles, such as semi trucks, after a crash to rescue trapped occupants without risking the lives’ of first responders.
The toolkit also works for confined-space, structural-collapse and trench rescue operations.
Slovan VFD Fire Chief Tom Krenn called the donation “fantastic news,” saying that his department appreciates Langeloth’s support.
“This vital safety equipment will help provide safety to our firefighters and help protect people in our community. This equipment is critical for VFD operations to lift and stabilize any commercial vehicle,” he said in a statement.
The department covers an area that includes sections of Route 18, Route 50, Route 22 and Interstate 576, all of which are heavily traveled routes for commercial vehicles, so the apparatus will be a welcome addition to its toolkit.
State Sen. Camera Bartolotta, R-Washington, said she is “excited for Smith Township VFD, Langeloth and the community. The VFDs play such a strong role to support our communities. Langeloth is a key part of our U.S. industrial base with its molybdenum and rhenium products.”
Langeloth is committed to safety, and this donation is part of the company’s focus on safety and its ongoing support for local organizations and initiatives that benefit the communities where its employees live and work, according to a statement.
Langeloth VP and GM Michael Meighen said “we’re excited to support the VFD and entire community. Langeloth has a culture of excellence, and this safety-focused contribution adds to that growing legacy.”