On Monday, February 9, North Glengarry Council approved the purchase of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) and oxygen cylinders manufactured by Dräger to replace aging units owned by the North Glengarry Fire Department. SCBA equipment ensures firefighter safety and is critical for breathing and communication in hazardous environments, including fires, gas leaks, and other emergency incidents.
North Glengarry Fire Chief Matthew Roy noted that the department’s current inventory of 38 SCBA units and 150 cylinders was purchased in 2012, and has now exceeded their useful service life, and is prone to frequent failures during inspections.
Roy recommended that the Fire Department purchase 38 new SCBA units and 100 cylinders at a cost of $598,850. An additional 50 cylinders are planned for purchase in 2027, with future funding to be considered by council.
Council allocated $600,000 in the 2026 capital budget for the purchase. A tender process was completed, with 1200 Degrees Darch Fire Inc. awarded the contract.
Once the purchase is completed, the existing equipment will be declared surplus, and council has authorized its sale through auction, local tender, or other means.
Council unanimously approved the purchase without further discussion.