SHAHEEN ANNOUNCES HUDSON FIRE DEPARTMENT TO RECEIVE $135,000 FOR OPERATIONS AND SAFETY

(Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen announced today that the Hudson Fire Department has been awarded $135,000 through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for operations and safety.

The department will use the grant to make improvements to its digital radio communications systems. More specifically, the department will purchase equipment that automatically searches for the strongest radio signal in the area, allowing firefighters to communicate quickly in situations where every second can make a difference.

"I visited the Hudson Fire Department earlier this month and met with Chief Shawn Murray. I was able to see firsthand how the department is already benefitting from the grant program," Shaheen said. "I am glad the firefighters will be able to get the equipment they need to keep the Hudson community safe."

"The Hudson Fire Department has benefitted greatly from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.  It allows us to make improvements to safety for our firefighters that would not otherwise be possible in today's economic climate," said Hudson Fire Chief Shawn Murray. "Communication during a fire is essential for the safety of our firefighters and Hudson is pleased to be the recipient of this award. "

These funds are the third Assistance to Firefighters Grant that the Hudson Fire Department has received.

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.