The department spent $45,000 for 45 vests and helmets. Since the vests will be shared, they adjust to fit each person. 

"We will not go into a hot or warm zone where there is known to be active shooting or some type of disturbance," explained Gillespie. "Like we have always done in Schenectady Fire Department, if there is a potential for domestic violence, we stage for local law enforcement to arrive on the scene to make sure that scene is safe."

A news conference was held Thursday afternoon at the Knoxville Fire Station to announce the $2,985 grant, nearly the maximum, awarded to the fire district by Compeer Financial of Monmouth.

Seven pairs of fire resistant and penetration-resistant gloves were bought as well as a calibration system for three electronic monitors that can read the levels of oxygen, carbon monoxide, flammables and other elements in a room.

“It’s certainly a need and allows our district and firefighters to serve better,” said Don Moffitt, a trustee of the fire protection district’s board.