WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Lois Capps announced today a one-year, $67, 406 federal grant for the Cambria Fire Department through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  This grant program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training in cooperation with the United States Fire Administration.

Congresswoman Capps has been a long time supporter of the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants programs.  This grant program is an important part of the federal government’s coordinated effort to improve the nation’s level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and fire related hazards.  This program has been providing funding to fire departments and other first responders since 2001.  These grants can be used for a variety of purposes, including the purchase of equipment, firefighter health and safety programs, enhancing emergency medical services programs, and conducting fire education and prevention programs.

“I am pleased to announce this important public safety funding for the Cambria Fire Department,” said Capps.  “Our brave firefighters work hard every day to protect residents, businesses, and our natural resources from the threat of fire and other public safety risks.  This grant will support the Cambria Fire Department’s Wellness/Fitness program which uses preventative health measures such as diet and exercise to prevent injuries and chronic diseases while promoting a healthy lifestyle.  As a nurse I recognize the value in these types of preventative health programs and I’m proud to support the federal government’s efforts to provide fire departments on the Central Coast and across the country with the resources to do their jobs in a safe and effective manner.”

“Funding Cambria Fire Department's Wellness/Fitness program will radically improve the safety of our firefighters and our community,” said Michael Gallagher, Captain of the Cambria Fire Department.  “We will address the alarming rate in firefighter fatalities due to heart attack, the costs incurred by injuries suffered in the form of sprains and strains, and the increased rate of cancer nationally among our ranks.  We recognize the need for a cultural change in the fire service so that healthy living, physical fitness and diet are as much a part of a safety mindset as personal protective equipment and diligent training.

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Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.