From excerpts on ChicagoTribune.com:
A group of 14 retired and active firefighters from across the U.S., led by Hank Clemmensen, recently returned from a two-week mission to Nairobi, Kenya. They conducted their annual firefighting training seminar, which drew over 250 local firefighters. This event was organized through Africa Fire Mission, a non-profit founded by David Moore Jr., who previously served with the Glendale Fire Department in Ohio. Moore reached out to Clemmensen due to his extensive background with the International Association of Fire Chiefs.
Moore established Africa Fire Mission after witnessing dire conditions during a humanitarian trip to Africa with Mission of Hope International. He noted that the organization now boasts around 30 active members and has shifted its focus to training instead of shipping costly equipment, which can cost up to $20,000 per shipment. As Clemmensen pointed out, simply donating gear without proper training often leads to unused supplies languishing in storage, particularly when manuals and labels are in foreign languages.
Clemmensen and Lt. Brooks Watson of the Chicago Fire Department spearheaded a recent equipment donation effort. Fire departments in the U.S. typically need detailed documentation to ensure their outdated gear is properly exported since regulations prohibit domestic reuse after ten years of service.
Historically, Nairobi had just one fire truck stationed at the airport to reassure international travelers. Additionally, many embassies and large corporations maintained their own private fire response teams. According to Clemmensen, the most vulnerable population includes the one million residents of five "slums," where makeshift homes are constructed from salvaged materials.
Attached is a photo showing some participants wearing donated protective gear from the Chicago Fire Department during the December training session near Nairobi. (Photo courtesy of Africa Fire Mission)
This story highlights not only the challenges faced by firefighters in developing regions but also the importance of pairing resources with education to make a meaningful impact. The efforts of groups like Africa Fire Mission are crucial in bridging gaps in global emergency preparedness.
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