BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – The Dickey Foundation bestowed a $10,000 lifesaving armor grant to Beckley’s Fire Department for its paramedics and firefighters when in active threat scenarios.
From the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the foundation is all about reinforcing the safety of those who serve on the front lines.
“2016 we had a tragic shooting in downtown Dallas on July seventh. We had 14 police officers who were injured or killed, some of whom would likely be alive today had they been wearing protective armor,” said Dickey Foundation Executive Director Betsy Orton.
“Mrs. Dickey saw that and she said, ‘Not again on my watch.’ That is where the Dickey Foundation was founded. And so we are here to help protect first responders like yourselves.”
According to Acting BFD Chief Ed Thompson, the contribution of these lifesaving armor vests means a lot to the department. The world has changed and unfortunately, government employees are more of a target than they once were. They have to consider that when responding to calls.
“We always approach things safely, especially when we know acts of violence are taking place,” Thompson said. “But it does give us an extra level of protection while we’re treating patients at that scene.”
When the paramedic or firefighter feels uncomfortable on a call they can put the vest on or if the call sounds okay and they choose not to — it’s up to their judgment.
“Getting these vests meant a lot to us, said Lt. Brian Malott. “If we’re more at peace of mind, the better help we can give. That’s our number one goal.”
The steel plate vest (only on the front part of the vest to protect vital organs) is for high-powered rifle rounds, while the soft armor vest (is for handgun rounds or knives).
“They’re so often having to go into war zones where there may be an active shooter or a particularly dangerous situation that’s putting them at risk,” Orton said. So the fact that we’re able to provide armor for them to make sure they are safe so they can get home and tuck in their kids at night does make a difference.”
Beckley Fire Department is glad the Dicky Foundation could help them out with such a powerful gesture that could save lives.
“There’s certain things we just can’t do within our budget, and this was one of them,” said Thompson. “It was a project we’ve been working on for a while and they really came through for us. It’s a great organization and we really appreciate the effort.”
