U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced the Dundee Volunteer Fire Department is set to receive $16,150 in federal funding to purchase a new fire hose and adapters necessary to fit the new hose to their new fire truck. The money was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.
“With this funding, Dundee Volunteer fire fighters can focus on their important work, knowing they have new and reliable equipment,” said Senator Schumer. “This investment to purchase hose and adapters for a new fire truck will help ensure that our local heroes can continue their life-saving work and will enable them to respond as effectively and safely as possible.”
“This is an important investment for the Dundee Volunteer Fire Department,” said Senator Gillibrand. “It’s our responsibility to ensure our first responders have the most up-to-date equipment to serve our communities. The new fire hose and adapters will help the Dundee Volunteer Fire Department respond to emergencies more efficiently and effectively, and help save more lives.”
“We are in the process of buying a new pumper tanker truck to replace the one we’ve had since 1985,” Dundee Volunteer Fire Department Chief David Bambey said. “This funding will be used to purchase 2,000 feet of 5-inch hose and adapters that will go on the new truck. We are delighted to be awarded this funding and getting this hose will certainly be a benefit to us.”
The federal investment for new equipment will help Dundee’s team of 62 volunteer firefighters who serve the community of 7,000 people.
Schumer was an original sponsor of the legislation that led to the creation of this funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program funds can go towards training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists local fire departments in programs and activities to improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency training for response to situations like terrorist attacks; enhancement of emergency medical services programs; development of health and safety initiatives; establishment of fire education and prevention programs; creation of wellness and fitness programs; and equipment and facility upgrades.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/ .