The St. Clair Township Fire Department is thanking Shell for its support.
The Shell Sarnia Manufacturing Centre recently donated $15,000 to the local fire department.
The funds will go towards the purchase of new environmentally friendly foam for use in fire suppression operations.
Fire Chief Richard Boyes said the new foam is not only more environmentally friendly than the AFFF, (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) it's also safer for his firefighters.
"This does not have PFAS (Per-and Polyfluorinated Substances) in it, which are toxic chemicals known to affect human health," said Boyes. "It's a forever chemical, and that was the problem with the old foam."
He said both aerial apparatuses will be equipped with the foam.
"Traditionally these foams are used for hydrocarbon fires," said Boyes. "So anything that would involve a hydrocarbon, so it could be industry but it could be a spill on the side of the road, like gasoline, diesel or other such products."
Boyes said Shell was the first refinery to make the move to this foam, and being a key partner with the fire department, they helped out with the purchase of the product.
"We're very thankful that Shell came along with this generous donation to help us, and it underlines the partnership that we have with the industries here in St. Clair Township."
The St. Clair Township Fire Department includes fire stations in Brigden Corunna, Courtright, Wilkesport, Port Lambton and Becher with about 150 firefighters.
