Denis Leary's foundation donates $260K in equipment to Detroit fire department

DETROIT, May 26 (UPI) -- Denis Leary and his Leary Firefighters Foundation say they presented more than $260,000 in new equipment to the Detroit Fire Department, which was bought with the proceeds from the firefighter documentary, BURN.

Leary executive produced the film, along with foundation board member Jim Serpico. BURN was directed and produced by Tom Putnam and Detroit native Brenna Sanchez.

"Each time we are blessed with the ability to donate funds, which will help the brave and courageous firefighters of this country, we do so with gratitude and admiration," Leary said in a statement. "Every dollar makes a difference. I've had the opportunity to meet and spend time with the firefighters featured in our film BURN and I know the circumstances they work under. I sincerely hope this gift can aid them and their fellow firefighters in making improvements on the job."

The equipment donated included state-of-the-art, thermal imaging cameras, carbon monoxide detectors and all of the accessories required for the equipment to be put to immediate use, the organization said.

Leary has long been a vocal supporter of firefighters. His celebrated TV drama series, Rescue Me, followed a team of New York firefighters in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.