September 29, 2004

WASHINGTON -- Congressman Tom Petri reports that the Potter Volunteer Fire Department has received a $66,150 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funds will be used to replace protective clothing and self-contained breathing equipment.

Robbie Schoen of the fire department said that the new breathing equipment will replace gear that is 17 years old.

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."