United States Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that the Levittown Fire District is set to receive $359,000 in federal funding to purchase new turn-out gear. The money was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.
“With this funding, Levittown’s first responders can focus on their important work knowing they have new, reliable and protective equipment,” said Senator Schumer. “This investment will help ensure that our local heroes can continue their life-saving work as effectively and safely as possible.”
“This is an important investment for the Levittown Fire District,” said Gillibrand. “It’s our responsibility to ensure our first responders have the most up-to-date equipment to serve our communities. The new protective equipment will help Levittown Fire District update their emergency response equipment so that their firefighters can respond to emergencies in the community more efficiently and effectively, and help save more lives.”
“We applaud Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their tireless support of this program, and this fire department,” said Joel Berman, Levittown Fire District Commissioner.
The Levittown Fire District will use the federal funds to purchase personal protective equipment, also known as “turn-out gear.” This gear protects firefighters from heat, flame and hazardous materials and includes helmets, gloves, nomex hoods, bunker pants and turn-out coat.
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, as well as 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/.