Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $114,950 in federal funding for Lake George Fire Department. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and will be used to purchase a new in-house oxygen system.
“These much-needed federal funds will provide the assistance that the Lake George Fire Department needs to replace critical equipment. First responders are our primary line of defense – they safeguard our residents and protect our property. It’s crucial that we provide our fire departments support to purchase the equipment they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability,” said Senator Schumer.
“This is a critical investment for Lake George,” said Senator Gillibrand. “When our first responders go into harm’s way, we need to make sure they have the right equipment to save lives. This funding will provide the critical tools that our fire fighters need to better serve our community.”
“The Federal grant will allow our Fire Department to purchase new Scott Air Packs that desperately needed replacement over the past two years,” said Robert Blais, Mayor, Village of Lake George. “FEMA grants are a valuable asset in maintaining a high standard of fire protection and capabilities to the Volunteer Fire Service.”
The Lake George Fire Department has been serving Warren County residents since 1890 and has remained an active staple in the community. The department will use this federal funding to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs).
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/ .