SHAHEEN ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $92,000 FOR FIRE SAFETY IN CHESTER

(Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen announced today that the Chester Fire Department has been awarded $92,074 through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for Operations and Safety.  The grant will be used to upgrade and replace the department's supply of self contained breathing gear. 

"Our firefighters and first responders deserve the best training and equipment we can offer," said Shaheen.  "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 effectively."

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.

The Operations and Safety Program provides funding for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

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.  More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/.