10/22/2024
Recently we were made aware of some questions about radios that we purchased. We want to ensure the community that anytime there is a question, please ask us as we would be happy to explain any purchase we have made.
Over the last several years, fire departments throughout Lorain County have changed and upgraded the radio system in which they operate. Eaton Township Fire and Rescue has not changed the radio system in which we operate.
The radios we utilized prior to the purchase in question, were single band radios. A single band radio is only able to communicate on a single radio system. The single band radios were awarded through a grant in 2008, and parts to replace those aging radios have become obsolete.
The purchase in question, was for the purchase of Harris portable radios (eight in total). The Harris radio is a tri band radio, providing our firefighters the ability to communicate with any other agency, regardless of the radio system being utilized.
Our department strongly researched the available options, and believed the Harris radios, while expensive, placed our firefighters in the best position for safety and success.
With upgraded technology, comes an increased price. When we purchased the radios in question, we paid a discounted price due to available promotions at the time. Eight radios was and still is not enough, which is why we sought grant funding with surrounding fire departments to obtain an additional four radios. The grant was successful, and we now operate twelve tri-band Harris radios. Although twelve is scratching the surface of where we’d like to be it places us in a better position than before.
We understand the cost of these radios and all other equipment, our department will continue working to provide our firefighters with the most up to date equipment to ensure their safety and ability to perform their job.
We encourage any, and all residents with question to please reach out. We are proud and happy to share the progress of our department.
