U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $57,976 in federal funding for Nanuet Fire Department in Rockland County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, the Nanuet Fire Department will use the funds to replace 20 lengths of fire supply hose and purchase an SCBA air cascade system.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the tools they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our primary line of defense for safety and security—it is critical that we do all we can to ensure that they are well equipped and prepared to take on any emergency.”
“These federal funds will allow the Nanuet Fire Department to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Every day our first responders risk their lives to protect us, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure our local fire departments have the support and equipment they need to do their jobs effectively.”
“The Officers and Members of the Nanuet Fire Engine Company would like to thank FEMA for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) award of $57,976 that will replace 20 lengths of fire supply hose that failed pressure testing and supply the funds to purchase a new SCBA air cascade system. The new hose will increase our efficiency to extinguish fires effectively plus reduce the amount and costs of property damage. All our fire apparatus will now be able to carry 1000 feet of 5-inch supply hose. The SCBA air cascade system will enable us to ensure our members have the purest air possible to breath during calls. As our air replenishment process becomes more efficient, the safety of our members will increase. We will not have air cylinders out of commission while waiting for them to be filled, improving our fire ground operations. We would also like to thank Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and their staff for their support that they provided for this grant award,” said Vincent Pacella, Nanuet Fire Department Commissioner.
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.fema.gov/firegrants.