The Batesville Fire Department is ordering 16 new steel-plated bullet-proof vests.

The 16 vests will cost about $14,000. They are paid for through the alcohol tax from local restaurants in the city dedicated to the public safety fund.

Fire Chief Brent Gleghorn telling KAIT it’s all about being prepared for any scene and being able to properly assist victims.

In most active shooting events, EMS and firefighters must wait until police arrive and clear the scene for them in order to tend to victims.

Now, those vests will increase the fire fighters safety and will allow them to do their job while officers work to de-escalate scenes.