Eleven Connecticut cities and towns will receive equipment worth a total of $148,870 to help improve first responder capabilities, Senators Chris Dodd and Joe Lieberman announced today. The equipment will be provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security under the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP). The initiative provides resources such as communications interoperability equipment, information sharing technology, chemical detection devices, sensors, personal protective equipment, and rescue tools. The CEDAP also provides first responders with training in how to use the equipment, devices, and technology.

“First responders are the backbone of communities across Connecticut and the nation,” said Dodd.  “This important funding will supply eleven departments in Connecticut with the critical equipment their first responders need to continue their brave work safely and effectively.”

“Because we rely on the men and women who respond every day to disasters in our communities, they must be able to depend on their equipment to help get the job done,” Lieberman said. “This assistance will provide first responders across Connecticut with the essential tools they need to help save lives. Our first responders deserve nothing less.”

• The following localities will receive awards:

• New Canaan Police Department - $14,000

• Wilton Police Department - $8,000

• Central CT State University Police Department - $8,000

• New Milford Police Department - $8,000

• Avon Police Department - $8,000

• Waterford Police Department – $8,000

• Guilford Police Department - $3,785

• Southern CT State University Police Department - $3,785

• The Cheshire Fire Department - $28,550

• Oxford Fire Department - $28,550

• Oxford Police Department - $13,650

• Fairfield Fire Department – $16,550