The Department purchased a commercial grade washing machine that was installed at Central Station, enabling the Department to comply with the requirements of Bloodborne Pathogen legislation.  This appliance has the added advantage of providing Department personnel the opportunity to clean their suppression clothing on a regular basis.

Foam injection systems were added to Engines One, Two, Three, Ladder One, and all Reserve apparatus.  These units allow the introduction of a pre-determined amount of Class A foam into a 1-¾" fire attack line.  This additive reduces the surface tension of the water, thus allowing it to better penetrate wood, paper, cloth and other combustible materials.  The result is quicker extinguishment of fire and less time spent on overhaul after a fire.

Headset/Intercom Communications systems are installed in all apparatus.  These systems allow all firefighters riding the apparatus to communicate with each other while responding to an alarm without shouting.  The units also reduce the amount of noise exposure from the sirens, air horns and diesel engine of the vehicle.  These systems also allow the Driver to communicate on the radio while at the pump panel at the scene of a fire.

The preparation of Site Specific Emergency Response Plans for facilities which use or store hazardous materials is a requirement of the Michigan Fire Fighters Right-to-Know law, and this project continues to be an ongoing, year around activity.

The Jackson Fire Department became licensed by the State of Michigan Department of Public Health as a Medical First Responder provider of emergency medical care.  This was after all suppression personnel successfully completed training as Emergency Medical Technicians, Emergency Medical Technician Specialist, Paramedics, and one as an RN.

In the interest of fire fighter health, the Jackson Speech & Hearing Clinic gives all employees a baseline-hearing test, with the Jackson County Health department providing TB and Hepatitis screening.