“This round of fire grants brings $60,188 to rural communities in Little River and Jefferson Counties,” Ross said.  “That funding will go a long way toward helping our local firefighters protect people and property.  For residents of these areas, firefighters serve as first responders to a number of emergencies in addition to fires.  These volunteers put their lives on the line, these grants will help to make sure that they are working with the best equipment and training possible.”  

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program includes funding for training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.  Departments in the Fourth District receiving grant awards for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety are as follows: 

·        Richmond Fire Department (Ashdown) - $32,288 

The Emergency Medical Services Program includes equipment, training, and wellness and fitness initiatives for fire-based EMS units.  Departments receiving grant awards for Emergency Medical Services are as follows: 

·        Watson Chapel Fire Department, Inc. (Pine Bluff) - $27,900 

This is the eighth round of notifications for the 2003 program.  Further notifications are expected on a weekly basis for the next few months.