MECHANIC FALLS – The Mechanic Falls Fire/Rescue Department has received a $59,500 Homeland Security grant for new gear and equipment.

The money will be used to buy firefighter coats and pants, an exhaust evacuation system and an extractor/washer, Town Manager John Hawley said.

He explained that the exhaust evacuation system captures hazardous exhaust gases and particulates discharged from fire apparatus and filters them to the outside of the building. Exhaust fumes from apparatus started in a fire station has contributed to lung disease in firefighters.

The extractor is a heavy-duty, commercial-sized clothes washer used to clean gear. The money allotted for gear will allow the purchase of 12 sets of coats and pants.

“This is the second time since the establishment of the grant that we have received an award,” Hawley said. “We apply each year but have only gotten lucky twice.”

The funding is a huge benefit for the community, without directly hitting the local taxpayers with the bill, he said.