WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Department of Homeland Security has awarded two grants totaling more than $70,000 to the Aromas and Big Sur fire departments.

• Aromas Tri-County Fire Protection District will receive $47,500
• Big Sur Volunteer Fire Brigade will receive $23,940

"Fire is a year-round concern for us on the Central Coast, and we've all been touched by the massive blazes over the past six months," said Rep. Sam Farr (D-Carmel). "These Homeland Security grants are vital for all of our fire departments, large and small, and I'm proud to support them. I've always said that Homeland Security is hometown security, and that starts with our first responders."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program has provided $2.75 billion to first-responder organizations around the country since the grant program began in 2004. The operations and safety grants the two fire departments will receive can be used for training, equipment, fitness and health modifications to stations and facilities.

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