New Durham Fire Department gets $64,000 federal grant

NEW DURHAM - The town Fire Department has been awarded $64,600 from the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for the purpose of operations and safety.

The awarding of the grant was announced by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen on Wednesday.

"Our firefighters and first responders deserve the best training and equipment we can offer, and this grant will provide an important boost in resources for the New Durham Fire Department," said Shaheen in a statement." These brave firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and we must ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs safely and efficiently."

The grant program allocates federal funds for a variety of services, including helping improve firefighting operations through specialized training for responding to terrorist attacks. The funds are also used for developing health and safety programs, fire education and prevention programs, and facility and equipment upgrades.

The Operations and Safety Program gives fire departments opportunities for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, physical fitness and important modifications to stations and other facilities.

Grants are awarded competitively to applicants who closely address the program's priorities as well as financial need.