U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $24,939 in federal funding for the City of Cortland Fire Department. The funding was allocated through a Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grant through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, the City of Cortland Fire Department will use the funds to install a fire safety trailer, a 9-1-1 training simulator, and two new smoke machines for training purposes. Additionally, this funding will be used to send local firefighters to receive national certification training.
“These much-needed federal funds will enable the City of Cortland Fire Department to train firefighters and purchase the critical supplies they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes—they are our primary line of defense and protect our residents and property. That is why it is crucial that we provide them with the manpower and cutting-edge equipment that they need to do their jobs.”
“This investment in training and new equipment would help better prepare our firefighters to handle emergency situations,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect the men and women who risk their lives every day in the face of danger, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure that our fire departments are funded and equipped.”
“We are grateful for this Fire Prevention & Safety Award,” said Cortland Fire Chief Charles Glover. “The money will allow us to enhance our ability to present fire safety, fire prevention and education within our community.”
The Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grants are part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG), a Department of Homeland Security program that is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the United States Fire Administration. FP&S grants support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. The primary goal is to reduce injury and prevent death among high-risk populations.