The Jamesport Fire District is one of three in Suffolk County that will receive federal funding to purchase protective equipment for firefighters.
JFD will receive $24,791 from the federal Assistance to Firefighters grant program, U.S. senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced Monday.
The equipment Jamesport will purchase with the grant money includes: eight helmets, eight fire-resistant hoods worn under helmets, 10 pairs of thermal pants with knee protection and four coats, the senators said in a press release.
The Medford Fire District will receive $476,820 in federal funding to purchase 82 self-contained breathing apparatus units. The Gordon Heights Fire District will receive $82,175 to purchase diesel exhaust systems for six fire trucks to filter and vent harmful fumes outside the vehicles, according to the press release.
“With this funding, first responders in Suffolk County can focus on their important work knowing they have new, reliable and protective equipment,” Schumer said.
“This is an important investment for Suffolk County,” Gillibrand. “When our first responders go into harm’s way, we need to make sure they have the right equipment to save lives. Federal funding will help our firefighters better serve their communities and save more lives.”
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 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 grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the department’s U.S. 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, according to the senators’ press release. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters program can be accessed at http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program
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