Southern Door Fire Chief Rich Olson hopes the department's annual event later this month is one of the only times you'll see its newest piece of equipment in action.

Firefighters will demonstrate their new Jaws of Life extrication equipment at the Southern Door Firefighters' Parade and Picnic on July 25. The new battery-powered equipment has twice the strength of the department's previous apparatus, which had been in service for more than two decades.

While tax dollars fund the department's operating expenses, volunteer fire departments like Southern Door rely on fundraisers and grants to pay for equipment upgrades. Olson said he is thankful for the community's support, which helps ensure firefighters have the tools they need when responding to emergencies.

Proceeds from this year's Southern Door Firefighters' Parade and Picnic will help offset the cost of the new extrication equipment. In previous years, the department has upgraded its brush trucks, turnout gear and other equipment thanks to the generosity of the community through the annual event.