June 30, 2004

WASHINGTON -- Brownsville Fire Company Receives Federal GrantCongressman Tom Petri reports that the Brownsville Fire Company has received a $47,426 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funds will be used to purchase a computer-based training program which will lead to the certification of the local firefighters.

Some of the funds will also be used to replace protective gear.

"It's difficult for small departments to carry out comprehensive training, so this should help," said Petri.

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."