BIRMINGHAM – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) announced that Cahaba Valley Fire and Emergency Medical Rescue has been awarded a federal fire grant totaling $56,442.
"Firefighters are on the front lines every day, protecting lives and property in the community. 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," Bachus said.
Cabaha Valley Fire and Emergency Medical Rescue will use the Operations and Safety Grant to purchase a new air compressor for breathing apparatus and safety equipment.
Chief Charles Morton said, "Without these federal funds, fire departments would be forced to cut back on personnel or they would not have the kind of safety equipment needed to fight fires safely. These grants have been vital in providing the necessary funding to fire departments that allow them to get the equipment needed to function at safe levels. We appreciate the work of Congressman Bachus on issues affecting volunteer firefighters."
Funds awarded under the Assistance for Fire Fighters Grant program are used to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency 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.