WASHINGTON – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) announced that the Helena Fire Department and the North Shelby County Fire and Emergency Medical District have been awarded federal fire grants totaling more than $138,000.
"Firefighters are on the front lines every day, protecting lives and saving property. They deserve modern equipment and the best in safety gear. This grant program helps ensure that fire companies have the necessary resources to quickly and effectively respond to emergency calls. Helena and North Shelby provide outstanding service to their communities, and this will help them maintain that high standard," Bachus said.
Bachus announced the following grants.
Helena Fire Department - $11,780
Operations and Safety Grant for 12 new fire nozzles, a combination ladder, and new intake valves for fire tankers
Chief Peter Valenti said, "With budgets very tight, these are desperately needed funds that will help us buy equipment. We will be able to replace equipment that is outdated and broken with new, modern gear. What we are purchasing here really are the basics of firefighting."
North Shelby County Fire and Emergency Medical District - $112,050
Operations and Safety Grant for air packs and self-contained breathing apparatus, allowing each firefighter to have their own unit to prevent cross-contamination
Chief Michael O’Connor said, "These funds will allow our department to purchase up-to-date, certified breathing equipment to meet new standards. Each firefighter will have their own mask, preventing contamination and keeping them healthier and safer. The firefighters and citizens of North Shelby County would like to thank Congressman Bachus for all his assistance and support."
Funds awarded under the Assistance for Firefighters Grant program are used to meet the firefighting and emergency needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated medical services organizations. Only the applications most closely conforming to program priorities are considered and scored by peer review panels.
The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.