Fire departments receive $1.6M in federal funds

CENTRAL FALLS – U.S. Sens. Jack F. Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Reps. James R. Langevin and David N. Cicilline announced today $1,601,344 in federal funding to assist fire departments in Central Falls, Exeter and Woonsocket in purchasing new trucks and firefighting equipment. These improvements will enhance response capabilities, vehicle safety advancements and financial savings in these communities.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is funding these purchases.
The Central Falls Fire Department was awarded $476,191 to replace its current 1988 pumper fire apparatus. The new modem pumper truck will provide firefighters with enhanced safety with more efficient equipment, according to a news release.
The Exeter Fire Department No. 1, a volunteer fire department that serves the eastern part of Exeter, was awarded $445,554 to buy a new pumper engine. This new truck will have increased pumping capacity and other advanced safety features designed to improve the department’s emergency response and firefighting capabilities.
The Woonsocket Fire Department will receive $681,819 for a new aerial ladder truck to remedy an older fleet. The truck will have a 100-foot ladder and a prepiped waterway, saving valuable time during an emergency by allowing the firefighters to connect the hydrant to the rear of the truck, according to the release.
“I’m delighted that these three communities are receiving state-of-the-art fire trucks through FEMA,” stated Cicilline, who advocated for the city of Woonsocket based on its request. “This will ensure our brave first responders can do their jobs as effectively and safely as possible. It will make a real difference in our communities and in keeping Rhode Islanders safe. This is exactly how government should work for the people it serves.”
In 2014, the Woonsocket Fire Department received a $271,292 AFG award for the construction of new fire alarm systems in four fire stations and to purchase personal escape systems, which allow firefighters to quickly repel out a window to safety when trapped in life-threatening situations.
Congress appropriated $306 million in federal AFG grants last year to help fire departments and non-affiliated EMS organizations across the country, according a press release from Reed.
AFG is a grant program designed to assist fire departments and emergency medical service organizations in purchasing equipment, training and other essentials.
According to the press release, Rhode Island fire departments and other first responders have won almost $28 million in AFG awards since the program was established in 2001.

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