WASHINGTON – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) today announced that the Town of West Jefferson Volunteer Fire Department in Jefferson County has been awarded a federal fire grant in the amount of $29,450.
"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. The West Jefferson Volunteer Fire Department is to be commended for qualifying for this funding," Bachus said.
Bachus announced the following grant.
Town of West Jefferson Volunteer Fire Department - $29,450
Operations and Safety Grant for an extrication tool (Jaws of Life) and thermal imaging camera
Chief James Nix said, "We are thankful for the grant. Our fire and rescue crews need the extrication tool when they respond to accidents. The thermal imaging camera will help to identify hotspots and even individuals in burning buildings."
Funds awarded under the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) 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.