June 17, 2004

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Tom Petri reports that the Two Rivers Fire Department has received an $81,005 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funds will be used to revamp self-contained breathing apparatus which Fire Chief Michael Pohlman termed "hopelessly outdated."

When informed of the grant, Pohlman responded, "This is fantastic! You've made my day!"

"Clearly, this was an urgent need of the Two Rivers Fire Department, and I'm glad they are getting assistance" Petri said.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program awards one-year grants directly to local fire departments, enhancing their abilities to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities.

"We used to expect fire departments to simply put out fires, but now we expect them to carry out fire prevention and safety programs and provide emergency medical services," said Petri. "These grants are meant to help local communities cope with the added expenses in order to keep us all safer."