Protect the Protectors: Donations still needed for Colorado Springs Fire Department

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- It's still not too late to "Protect the Protectors!"

Wednesday night, our KRDO team partnered with Shield 616 for our "Protect the Protectors Telethon" to raise money for rifle-rated vests for the Colorado Springs Fire Department.

So far - we've raised $80,451 - but we still have a long way to go to reach our $200,000 goal.

Former Colorado Springs police officer, Jake Skifstad, says as someone who responded to two active-shooter situations himself - he knows how important it is for not only police, but fire-fighters, to be equipped with rifle-rated vests.

Skifstad the 2017 Las Vegas shooting that killed 58 people and wounded over 400 more, severely changed the way firefighters respond in active-shooter situations.

“The way that they’re training and the way that they’re doing their tactics, they’re coming in right behind law enforcement”, says Skifstad. "When the [shooter] is still firing, they still need to get in there, and they still need to do their job".

In addition to rifle-rated vests, Shield 616 also provides first-responders with ballistic helmets and first-aid kits.

Skifstad says those who donate will also be given the opportunity to get to know Colorado Springs' first-responders on a more personal basis.

“They’ll be invited to a vest presentation, so they’ll have a chance to see their firefighter receive their generous gift, but also have a chance to support and encourage them throughout the year”, says Skifstad.

You can still donate to provide rifle-rated vests to CSFD firefighters here.