House Seal Outline

Washington, Nov 14 -

U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor along with U.S. Representatives Vic Snyder (AR-02), John Boozman (AR-03) and Mike Ross (AR-04) today announced more than $1.6 million in grants for Arkansas fire departments through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.

AFG provides fire departments and EMS organizations the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.

“As first responders, our local firefighters play an integral role in keeping our communities safe,” Lincoln said. “This federal funding will provide fire departments with the best training and equipment so they can continue to protect our families.  I will continue to do all I can to ensure that Arkansas receives the funds and resources we need to keep our state safe.”
 
“Proper training and equipment to protect our first responders ensure they can do their jobs to the fullest,” said Pryor. “I commend local leaders for seeking these funds to strengthen and protect their communities.”

“All Arkansans wherever they live in Arkansas deserve the best fire protection  available,” Snyder said.  “These funds help us move in that direction.”

“This funding will be used to improve the capabilities of our firefighters and emergency response personnel,” Boozman said. “Ensuring they have the right tools and training for their jobs also means our communities will be safer.”

“Our communities rely on our local and volunteer fire fighters and first responders to help keep our families safe and protect our homes in times of disasters,” said Ross.  “I am pleased to announce these federal funds because ensuring that these brave individuals have the necessary tools and resources to quickly answer the needs of their citizens should always be a top priority.”

The following departments have been awarded AFG grants to purchase vehicles or improve operations and safety:
 
• Bigelow Fire Department - $190,000
• Bryant Fire Department - $186,750
• Bull Shoals Volunteer Fire Department - $19,950
• Central City Volunteer Fire Department - $197,600
• Damascus Fire Department - $186,431
• Faircrest Volunteer Fire Department - $60,017
• Johnson Fire Department - $68,472
• Ouachita Volunteer Fire Department - $37,991
• Wickes Rural Volunteer Fire Department - $213,750

AFG will provide award approximately $500 million in competitive grants from FY 2008 funds.