U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced Stony Creek Volunteer Fire Co. Inc. will receive $52,440 in federal grants to purchase new protective gear. The funding comes from the FY12 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. AFG awards are administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and are designed to help firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.
“With this funding we can protect first responders by helping departments like Stony Creek Volunteer Fire Co. utilize the latest technology,” said Senator Schumer. “These new Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) sets put safety first when it comes to sending fire fighters into dangerous situations. This vital grant will support Stony Creek’s local heroes as they continue their life-saving work.”
“This is an important investment for Stony Creek Volunteer Fire Co.,” Senator Gillibrand said. “When our first responders go into harm’s way to keep us safe, it’s our job to make sure they have the right resources. This funding will help the Stony Creek Volunteer Fire Co. purchase new protective gear so their volunteer firefighters can respond to emergencies in the community more efficiently and effectively, and help save more lives.”
“We are very pleased to receive this grant as a large percentage of our personal protective equipment (PPE) is over 10 years old,” said Stony Creek Fire Co. Chief, John Thomas. “Each set of PPE cost $2,300 which includes coats, bunkers, boots, gloves, hoods and helmets. We respond to fire and ems calls as our company is both fire and ambulance co. This PPE is the first line of protection for our volunteers and is greatly needed by our company.”
Stony Creek Volunteer Fire Co., Inc. will use the federal funds to purchase new personal protective equipment for first responders as they serve the Stony Creek community.
The AFG 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.
AFG funds 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/ .