|
(Washington D.C.)- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this week that the Center Line Public Safety Department and Southfield Fire Department will be the recipients of firefighter assistance grants. Congressman Levin wrote letters to DHS in support of both grant applications.
“At a time of unprecedented strain on local budgets, these grants are important to ensure that these first responders have the facilities and equipment they need,” said Rep. Levin. “The funding will allow for needed improvements so firefighters in these two communities are better equipped and prepared to protect local citizens.”
The Center Line Public Safety Department will receive $55,176 to acquire new personal protective equipment for firefighters. The funding will allow Center Line to upgrade coats, pants, protective hoods, and boots for full-time and volunteer firefighters.
“With the current economic conditions and budget constraints we would not have been able to replace this old equipment without the assistance of this grant,” said John Riley, Director of Public Safety for Center Line.
The Southfield Fire Department will receive $102,000 to construct new fire hall air handling systems in three of their five fire stations. The diesel exhaust systems currently in place have deteriorated extensively and no longer effectively remove harmful gases and particles put into the air by truck engines. Replacing the air handling systems will greatly improve the health of the firefighters, who often spend twenty-four hours at a time in the fire station.
(####)
|
