This article was originally published on January 21, 2026 by KQEN News Radio
North Douglas County Fire & EMS has been awarded two grants through the Oregon Emergency Management State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment program.
A release from the agency said the funding will strengthen the department’s emergency response and rescue capabilities.
The first grant provided funding for Holmatro battery operated rescue tools, which will enhance vehicle extrication operations. These modern tools improve responder safety, reduce set-up time, and allow crews to operate more efficiently during rescue incidents.
The second grant funded an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle equipped with thermal imaging technology. This capacity will significantly improve search and rescue operations and situational awareness during emergencies by allowing responders to locate heat signatures and assess scenes from the air.
The release said all grant-funded equipment has now been received from Oregon Emergency Management, and a formal equipment agreement has been finalized. North Douglas Fire & EMS crews are currently training and familiarizing themselves with the new equipment to ensure safe and effective use.