On Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 8 to 11 a.m., the Muscatine Fire Explorers will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser in an effort to reach their ultimate goal of purchasing National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) compliant gear for the Explorers.
Focusing on a $5,000 match grant by October 1, all proceeds will go towards the purchasing 5 sets of NFPA compliant gear for the Explorers which would total $17,500. The new equipment will replace outdated Explorers equipment that is estimated to be 15-20 years old.
In addition the breakfast that will consist of pancakes, eggs, and sausage, a 50/50 raffle will take place on-site.
The breakfast will be held at Walnut Park Baptist Church located at 215 Colorado St., just across from Weed Park.
A cost breakdown is as follows:
Cost of firefighting gear
- 5 pants and jacket = $13,250
- 5 helmets = $1,725
- 5 suspenders = $220
- 5 gloves = $475
- 5 boots = $1,750
Total Cost of 5 sets of firefighting turnout gear: $17,420
Cost for tuition and room and board at IFSI Explorer and Cadet School (4 days of training)
- 1 Explorer = $475
- 1 Advisor = $325
Total for 2 Explorers and 2 Advisors: $1,600
Annual Fee for Explorers through Scouts: $75/person
Free-will donations can also be made to the Muscatine Firefighters Charitable Association via Venmo at @mfcafire.
About the Muscatine Firefighters Charitable Association
The Muscatine Firefighters Charitable Association (MFCA) directly provides support to the Muscatine Fire Explorers through our 501(c)3 status. Fire Explorers are youth ages 14-21 who are interested in firefighting and emergency medical services. Fire Explorers are outfitted with firefighting turnout gear, train on firefighting skills, teamwork, and develop confidence. They meet twice a month, host an annual event bringing Explorers together from Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, participate in fundraisers, and help the Muscatine Fire Department during special events. The current gear being used is between 15-20 years old. According to NFPA 1851 gear shall not be used 10 years after the manufacture date. The gear loses its effectiveness as a thermal barrier and protection against cancer causing carcinogens. We are actively seeking donations to help us meet a $5,000 match grant by Oct. 1st. Meeting this goal will go a long ways towards purchasing the 5 sets of firefighting gear we would like to purchase.
Contact us at mfdexplorers@muscatineiowa.gov for more information.
