U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $41,815 in federal funding for two Southern Tier Fire Departments. This funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, the City of Hornell Fire Dept. in Steuben County will use $19,315 in federal funds to purchase 3,000 feet of new hoses and nozzles for use on multiple fire trucks. This will replace outdated hose from the 1960s, which no longer met the National Fire Protection Association’s criteria for safety. The Belmont Fire Dept. in Allegany County will use $22,500 in federal funds to purchase for new turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) packs to protect firefighters as they enter burning buildings and other dangerous situations.
“It is critical that we provide our local fire departments with the most up-to-date equipment they need to keep our citizens safe and do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our primary line of defense – it is crucial we provide them with the resources and cutting-edge tools they need to continue their important work of saving lives.”
“Our first responders are on the frontlines during emergencies and this federal funding would allow the Belmont Fire and Hornell Fire Departments to invest in critical protective equipment for first responders to carry out their lifesaving work more effectively in the community,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our firefighters should have the most up-to-date equipment when they respond to emergencies.”
“Firefighting equipment is very expensive and it is grants like this one that allow us to purchase the modern equipment necessary to protect our firefighters. We greatly appreciate Senator Schumer’s efforts advocating for AFG funding,” said Dan Smith, Fire Chief for the City of Hornell.
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/.