BOUCHER ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FUNDING FOR

BRISTOL VIRGINIA FIRE DEPARTMENT

$33,630 Federal Grant Will Purchase Fire Extinguishers for Bristol Apartments

            (Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Representative Rick Boucher announced today that, at his urging, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is providing a federal grant in the amount of $33,630 which will enable the Bristol Virginia Fire Department to equip 1000 apartment units in Bristol with fire extinguishers. "This provision of federal funding will enable the Bristol Virginia Fire Department to offer an added measure of fire protection to Bristol residents," Boucher said.                                          

With the benefit of the federal funds, the Department will purchase 1000 magnetic, stovetop fire extinguisher units which will be installed in each apartment rented by the Bristol Virginia Housing Authority and additional apartments in complexes which house children and senior citizens. The units will automatically detect high temperatures and activate in the event of a kitchen fire. The Department will also provide education to apartment residents on fire safety.

The Bristol Virginia Fire Department provides fire protection to the Virginia portion of the City of Bristol. The Department is staffed by 48 professional members. Walt Ford serves as the Department's chief.

            "I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has provided this funding which will assist the Bristol Virginia Fire Department to improve safety and prevent fires in Bristol apartment units," Boucher concluded.                                                

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