September 16, 2005

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Tom Petri reports that the Chilton Fire Department has received a $45,600 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The funds will be used to purchase personal protective gear such as fire-proof coats and pants.

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 ask a lot more of fire departments than we used to - not simply fire fighting but also fire prevention, safety programs, emergency medical services and even terrorist threats," said Petri. "These grants are meant to help local communities cope with the added expenses in order to keep us all safer."