Responsible PPE Disposition Program
At LION, sustainability goes beyond reducing waste. It means making thoughtful use of resources, supporting firefighters, and finding responsible solutions for gear at every stage of its life.
The Responsible PPE Disposition Program brings together LION, the LION Foundation, and Africa Fire Mission to give retired, excess, and obsolete firefighter protective equipment a clear path forward. Gear that remains serviceable may continue protecting firefighters who need it, while equipment that has reached the end of its useful life is directed to an appropriate disposal pathway.
Supporting Firefighters Around the World
For many fire departments in developing regions, access to essential protective equipment remains a challenge. Through this program, eligible gear from LION and participating U.S. fire departments can be prepared for donation and distributed to African fire departments through Africa Fire Mission's established humanitarian network.
Eligible equipment may include:
- Excess or obsolete new inventory
- Retired turnout gear
- Helmets, boots, gloves, hoods, and other approved PPE
- Additional firefighting equipment that meets program requirements
- Inspection and evaluation
- Cleaning and sanitization
- Minor repairs, when appropriate
- Removal of department and firefighter identification markings
- Documentation and liability management requirements
Each item is evaluated to determine the most appropriate next step.
A Thoughtful, Responsible Process
Safety, stewardship, and accountability guide how donated equipment is handled. Before eligible gear moves forward for donation, it may undergo:
The result is a clear, structured process that helps participating organizations manage retired PPE responsibly while preparing eligible equipment for continued use.
Reducing Waste Through Responsible Disposal
Some retired PPE is no longer suitable for donation. Instead of leaving that equipment in storage or risking unintended use, the program directs it to an appropriate disposal pathway.
This combination of humanitarian reuse and responsible end-of-life management gives organizations a practical way to manage retired PPE, reduce waste, and support LION's broader commitment to environmental stewardship.
Creating a Lasting Impact
When serviceable gear can continue protecting firefighters, its impact doesn't have to end with its original department.
By connecting LION, the LION Foundation, Africa Fire Mission, and participating fire departments, the Responsible PPE Disposition Program helps put usable equipment where it can make a difference while providing a responsible path for gear that can no longer be used.
It's a practical approach with benefits that reach beyond any single department: supporting firefighters, making better use of resources, and helping build a more sustainable future for the fire service.
Protecting firefighters. Preserving resources. Creating global impact.