In 2013, the South Madison Community Foundation awarded $10,000 to the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory (LSCFT) after members of Open Hearts, Open Purses voted to purchase a new thermal imaging camera for the department. The camera is used to detect temperature or heat and display it as an image or color map. This helps firefighters see people that need rescued despite smoke or darkness and also helps identify hot spots within structure fires.
Upon receiving the new equipment, LSCFT welcomed OHOP members to the fire station to demonstrate the new camera. Leading members into a darkened room with overturned furniture and one member curled up on the floor, awaiting ‘rescue,’ OHOP members could not see the person in the room, even without extreme heat, smoke, and uniform. However, looking through the lens of the camera, the distinct outline of each obstacle and the person awaiting rescue were immediately visible. It was immediately apparent that the new equipment provided life-saving technology.
It’s no secret that local fire and police departments work tirelessly to serve and protect their community. But the joy service brings to those in these roles is sometimes overlooked. LSCFT members put their lives on the line to care for their neighbors, and enhanced equipment helps them complete successful rescues and experience the intense satisfaction of having impacted their community in the most important way – through saving lives.
It is clear, through their hard work and constant engagement, that LSCFT members care deeply about safety, sustainability, and connection to their community. In 2013, Open Hearts, Open Purses members were able to demonstrate their gratitude and support for the department with their gift of equipment.