Rapides Parish Fire District 12 has taken delivery of new life-saving equipment made possible through a federal grant awarded last year.

The district was notified in September 2025 that it had been awarded a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant that was originally applied for in 2024. Funding for the grant was temporarily delayed due to a government shutdown, but once operations resumed and the funding was secured, the district moved forward with purchasing new equipment.

An order was placed in December, and the equipment arrived last week. Through the grant, the district purchased 20 new MSA G1 self-contained breathing apparatus units along with 20 spare cylinders from Casco Fire Equipment.

The new equipment replaces SCBAs that are approximately 22 years old, are no longer supported with replacement parts, and have been in service with the district for more than two decades. The upgraded SCBAs will allow all district apparatus to meet current PIAL requirements.

District officials expressed appreciation to all individuals and partners involved in the grant process, noting that the upgrade would not have been possible without their support.