Rehab Tent Offers Relief for N.Y. Responders

Aug. 04--DURHAMVILLE -- One area fire department has bought a piece of equipment that can be used by many.

The Durhamville Volunteer Fire Department recently purchased a $4,000 tent that can be heated or air conditioned and has a misting unit. It also has cots and can be used by all area first responder departments, coming in handy when there are large-scale incidents.

The 10-foot by 20-foot tent is a place for first responders to get a respite.

"This tent is called a fast shelter," said Durhamville department member Medical Lt. Kim Simchik. "It keeps the firefighters out of the elements and makes it easier for us to help them (with medical needs). We are the only fire department in Oneida County and Madison County that has a rehab unit."

The tent was paid for through a donation and money on hand, according to the department.

It already has been put to use at a July 21 warehouse fire at All Seasonings (a spice packaging company) on Fitch Street in Oneida where numerous fire and police departments and ambulance units were all on site.

Firefighters who were at the scene said it was very hot that day and the tent came in handy as a place to cool off.

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