Leary gives new equipment to Detroit firefighters

DETROIT - Denis Leary, a longtime supporter of firefighters and the star of an acclaimed TV show in which he played one, was in Detroit on Thursday to present $260,000 worth of equipment to the bankrupt city's fire department.

The new gear was paid for by proceeds from "Burn," a documentary film about the city's firefighters that Leary executive-produced.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and Fire Commissioner Edsel Jenkins accepted the donation, which included carbon monoxide detectors and thermal imaging cameras and was made through the Leary Firefighters Foundation.

"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," said Leary, known for his starring role on "Rescue Me," which focused on New York City firefighters. "Every dollar makes a difference."

Filmmakers Tom Putnam and Brenna Sanchez, who followed Detroit firefighters to make "Burn," also were on hand for Thursday's presentation.

Leary was hosting a screening of "Burn" later in the day at The Fillmore Detroit. It has screened in 170 cities.