Novato Fire Protection District Receives Critical New Rescue Device

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April 14, 2009

Novato, California

It has quickly become one of the most important pieces of equipment any fire department can have, and now Novato firefighters will receive one of the most modern, high-tech versions.

Farallone Pacific Insurance and Fireman's Fund Insurance Company are teaming up to donate $5,000 to the Novato Fire Protection District for a new thermal imaging camera.

The device uses updated technology to enable the department's firefighters to "see" through smoke and darkness to quickly locate anyone trapped in a building during a fire. The camera can also play a major role in reducing property damage. With one in hand, firefighters can often locate hot spots inside walls and extinguish them before they spread.

"Thermal imagers used to be considered a luxury, but now they're a necessity because they can be used in so many different ways," said Fire Chief Marc Revere. "We are very lucky to be the recipient of this additional thermal imaging camera which will be placed on a responding engine."

"We can't think of a better way to support the community," said Peter Schmale with Farallone Pacific Insurance. "We're proud to be able to help in such a meaningful way, knowing our community will benefit from such an important piece of equipment."

The grant package is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman's Fund Insurance Company. The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman's Fund has issued grants to over 1,100 different departments totaling more than $21 million. Independent insurance agencies that sell Fireman's Fund products are able to direct these grants to support fire stations in their communities. Farallone Pacific Insurance was instrumental in directing this specific gift to Novato.

The new camera will be presented during a special public event attended by Chief Revere, Novato firefighters, and executives from Farallone Pacific Insurance and Fireman's Fund Insurance Company on April 16, 2009 at 11 a.m. at the Novato Fire Protection District, 95 Rowland Way, Novato, California.

About Farallone Pacific Insurance

With roots dating back to 1939, Farallone Pacific Insurance specializes in non-profit organizations, personal insurance, employee benefits, workers compensation, investment properties and business owners programs (BOP). With corporate headquarters in Novato, it also has satellite offices in San Francisco and Sacramento. For more information, visit www.fp-ins.com.

About Fireman's Fund

Fireman's Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal, commercial and specialty insurance products nationwide. It is rated 'AA-' by Standard & Poor's Rating Services. Founded in 1863 with a mission to support firefighters, Fireman's Fund continues this effort today through it national philanthropic efforts. Fireman's Fund is a member of the Allianz Group (NYSE: AZ), one of the world's largest providers of insurance and other financial services. For more information, visit www.firemansfund.com.