Kansas Town Devastated by Tornado Gets Help to Rebuild Fire Department.

Lifesaving Rescue Device Part of $13,000 Donation to Greensburg

GREENSBURG, Kan. -- Less than a year into the rebuilding process, the Greensburg Fire Department still struggles to return to full strength after the tornado that struck last May. To help Greensburg firefighters replenish and purchase new equipment, Lockton Companies and Fireman's Fund Insurance Company are teaming up to donate $13,000 for a new thermal imaging camera.

This type of device has quickly become one of the most important pieces of equipment any fire department can have, and now Greensburg firefighters will receive one of the most modern, high-tech models.

The thermal imager 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. It can also be used in standard search and rescue operations to locate people at night or find victims hidden under debris.

"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 Jay Cohen. "This new camera will play a key role in future rescues and will likely save lives in the years to come."

"These local firefighters provide a tremendous service to the community and we are proud to support them in such a tangible way," said Mark Henderson, chief operating officer of Lockton's Kansas City property and casualty insurance operations. "The people of Greensburg face a continuing challenge to rebuild their community. We hope this donation will inspire others to help create the new Greensburg."

The grant package is part of a nationwide program called Fireman's Fund Heritage([R]) which is 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 hundreds of different departments totaling more than $16 million. Independent insurance agencies that sell Fireman's Fund products are able to direct these grants to support fire stations in their communities. Lockton Companies was instrumental in directing this specific donation to Greensburg.

In October, Lockton Associates rebuilt two homes and framed Greensburg's new Volunteer Village community center.

About Lockton Companies

More than 3,800 professionals at Lockton provide more than 15,000 clients around the world with insurance, benefits, surety and risk management services, offering an uncommon level of client service. From a modest, home-based insurance agency, Lockton has become the 10th largest insurance broker in the world. It was founded by Jack Lockton in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1966. Learn more at www.lockton.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. Founded in 1863 with a mission to support firefighters, Fireman's Fund continues this mission today through the Fireman's Fund Heritage program. 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. It is rated 'A+' by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services. For more information, visit www.firemansfund.com.