SHAHEEN ANNOUNCES GRANTS FOR NEW HAMPSHIRE FIRE DEPARTMENTS

(Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) announced today that the Manchester and Bennington Fire Departments have been awarded money for operations and safety through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The Manchester Fire Department received $140,400 and the Bennington Fire Department received $40,252.

The Manchester Fire Department will use the money to buy protective equipment for firefighters, including helmets and boots. It will be able to purchase 117 sets that will replace the 10-year-old gear currently used.  Going forward, the funding will allow the department to replace their equipment every 10 years.

"Having the right equipment is crucial for firefighters to do their jobs. I am pleased that the Manchester firefighters will continue to stay safe as they serve and protect their community," Shaheen said. ""These types of grants are especially important given the fiscal situation faced by many local governments."

"This grant will enable us to purchase state-of-the-art equipment to protect our firefighters. We've been struggling with budget issues and this will certainly assist us in purchasing protective equipment," said Manchester Fire Chief James Burkush.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program provides funding to local fire departments to help them 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.