The Portage Police Department is pleased to announce a $4,200 donation from NIPSCO for the purchase of six soft-body armor vests.
This donation will benefit the Portage Fire Department medics assigned to the Portage Police Department SWAT team. SWAT medics have large, heavy entry vests that are cumbersome and cannot be worn during routine daily operations. Equipping SWAT medics with soft-body armor vests will allow a medic to get close to a dangerous scene should his or her normal vest not be available.
"In a day and age where we have seen fire, medical and EMT personnel from around the country be attacked, I felt that having our SWAT medics possess this additional protection was important," said Portage Police Department Chief Troy Williams. "Because of the cost, the extra vests were not in our budget, and we're very grateful for NIPSCO's generous donation."
This donation is one of many from NIPSCO as they continue their effort to support first responders in the community.
"We often find ourselves working closely with these men and women while responding to emergencies," said Public Affairs Manager Rick Calinski. "Safety is our number one goal at NIPSCO, and supporting the City of Portage with these vests is a great way to help ensure the safety of the officers in our community."