“This crucial funding is a great deal of help for firefighters in Union and Jefferson Counties,” Ross said.  “Our rural firefighters put their lives on the line every day, and ensuring that they have proper funding for training and equipment will not only help to protect the people they serve, it will protect them as they perform their duties in responding to emergencies.” 

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program includes training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.  The following departments have been awarded grants for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety: 

·        Standard Umsted Volunteer Fire Department, Smackover - $21,825

·        Highway 15 South Fire Department, Pine Bluff - $21,600 

This is the 14th round of notifications for the 2003 program.  Further notifications are expected on a weekly basis for the next few months.