WASHINGTON -- Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) today announced that the White Plains Fire Department has been awarded a $147,460 federal grant from the Department of Homeland Security.

“As we look to further strengthen our homeland security, we recognize that our local firefighters are a vital part of our first line of defense in almost all emergencies,” said Lowey, a member of both the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and the House Committee on Homeland Security.  “Equipping firefighters to meet increased security demands is an immense financial burden on our local governments. Cities like White Plains should not have to rely on raising property taxes to support their first responders; federal support is essential.”

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) Grants to Firefighters Program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), awards grants directly to fire departments.  Funds may be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, fire prevention and safety programs and to purchase new fire equipment. The agency plans to award a total of $750 million to local fire departments nationally.   

White Plains will receive the $147,460 from the Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program, which provides funding for additional training, fitness equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities. This grant will be used to install diesel exhaust removal systems in the active firehouses in the city.  These systems ensure that diesel exhaust is not trapped in the firehouses.

“Under the leadership of Commissioner Frank Straub and Chief Richard Lyman, the White Plains Fire Department has sought to provide its firefighters with the best training and equipment possible under a very tight budget. This grant will help protect our firefighters and improve their working conditions,” Lowey said.  “First responders risk their lives to protect our communities.  The first step in recognizing their courage is giving them the resources they need to do their jobs well.  I will continue to advocate increased federal funds for training and equipment for local first responders and fight to secure homeland security funds through programs like USFA.  We must step up to the plate and provide our local fire departments with the tools they need to ensure our safety.”

Lowey is an original sponsor of legislation to continue and bolster the Grants to Firefighters Program through 2007.