Firefighters, paramedics in Colorado Springs benefiting from Shield 616 donations

There’s no doubt, paramedics and firefighters have a dangerous job that puts them at risk nearly every day. It’s in those scary scenarios where their tools make all the difference.

Just a few weeks ago Station 7 in Colorado Springs received the gear that will help them in their ever changing role as firefighter paramedics.

“We find ourselves in some hairy situations sometimes,” said Battalion Chief Steve Wilch.

Even their uniform is forever evolving. It started out with a helmet, jacket and boots. Now-a-days they’re adding a vest and helmet strong enough to stop a bullet.

It’s not what you typically think of when picturing what firefighters and paramedics are wearing, but it should be.

“We’re seeing an increase in the number of shootings of public safety officers,” said Erin Beary, a firefighter paramedic.

Even Wilch, whose been a firefighter for the past 25 years says the job has changed.

“We find ourselves where we’ve walked to a situation that is dangerous. Where a firearm has been used or is about to be used,” he said.

You may even associate the Station 7 team with putting out fires. But the truth is, they’re working side by side with police officers in the line of fire.

“We stand shoulder to shoulder with them because when they have these hostile environments, they’re going to need either medical help for themselves or medical help for the public,” said Wilch.

The new gear makes their job to help us, safer for them.

“That extra layer of protection. So we’re very grateful to have those,” Beary said.

With every call, there’s a hope they won’t have to use it. But when the time comes, they’ll be better prepared.