“This funding will help to enhance our local firefighters’ abilities to respond to emergencies and protect the communities they serve,” Ross said.  “I am particularly pleased to see that the Delight Fire Department will receive the funding they need for a new fire truck – this area in Pike County is pretty spread-out, and the new truck will be put to good use.  Our firefighters do a great job with what resources they have, these grants ensure that they have the equipment they need to save lives and property.”

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: 

·        Buena Vista Volunteer Fire Department, Stephens - $12,673

·        Pine Bluff Fire Department - $104,195

·        Boggy Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Fouke - $31,500 

The Fire Prevention Program includes public education and awareness activities, fire codes enforcement activities, fire inspector certifications, purchase and installation of smoke alarms and fire suppression systems, wildland fire mitigation, and arson prevention and detection activities.  The following department has been awarded a grant for Fire Prevention: 

·        70 West Fire Protection Association, Hot Springs - $42,388 

The Firefighting Vehicles Acquisition Program includes pumpers, brush trucks, tankers, rescue, ambulances, quints, aerials, foam units, and fireboats.  The following department has been awarded a grant for a Firefighting Vehicle: 

·        Delight Rural Fire Department - $40,500