Senator Charles E. Schumer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 16, 2011

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES SEVEN WNY FIRE DEPTS WILL RECEIVE OVER $ 530,000 IN A FEDERAL FIRE GRANT FOR INTERDEPARTMENTAL RADIO COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

Goal Is to Enhance First Responders' Ability to Protect the Health And Safety of the Public In Erie County; Funding for Lake Erie Beach Volunteer Fire Co., Angola Volunteer Fire Co., Highland Hose Volunteer Fire Co., North Evans Volunteer Fire Co., Farnham Volunteer Fire Dept., Brant Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1, and Evans Center Volunteer Fire Company

Schumer Says Funds Will Help The Fire Departments Pay for Necessary Improvements During Difficult Fiscal Times

Schumer Has Successfully Pushed for Additional Funding for Assistance to Fire Departments and First Responders

Today, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer announced that seven Western New York volunteer fire companies have received a federal grant totaling $530,823 as part of Round 12 of the FY10 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funding will be used for a new interdepartmental radio communication system between Lake Erie Beach Volunteer fire company, Angola Volunteer Fire Company, Highland Hose Volunteer Fire Company, North Evans Volunteer Fire Company, Farnham Volunteer Fire Department, Brant Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, and Evans Center Volunteer Fire Company.

“This essential grant ensures that these volunteer fire departments will have a communication network that allows them to do their jobs, improve safety and save lives,” said Schumer. “These funds are truly a life saving investment that will provide our local first responders with indispensable resources and support, so they can be better prepared for emergencies.”

Schumer was among the first senators who recognized the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention. The Operations and Firefighter Safety Program funds can go towards training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant 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.

Schumer added: “We can never truly repay our first responders for their heroic efforts and dedication to duty. But we can make certain that they have the training and resources they need to do their job and do their job well. This federal money will ensure that the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect us get the resources they need to keep themselves and our communities safe.”

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security 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.

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