CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Charlotte firefighters are getting bulletproof vests and helmets.

  • The vests will go on top of their turnout gear
  • Gear would be used primarily during active shooter situations
  • The department will start out with 20 to 30 sets of ballistic gears for training proposes

Fire officials say they don't want to look like police officers and the vests will go on top of their turnout gear.

Chief Reginald Johnson said this gear would be used primarily during active shooter situations but the equipment would be available if needed on other calls.

Firefighter Jonathan Griswold was shot at while responding to a call in March of 2016. He said he's grateful for the additional protection.

“We're going to get the job regardless, but it’s definitely something that we need to have and it makes me feel better knowing that we have it,” said Jonathan Griswold.

Chief Johnson said the department will start out with 20 to 30 sets of ballistic gears for training proposes. He said they’ll distribute the rest of the gear at a later date.

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