SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $52,000 FEDERAL GRANT FOR PLEASANTDALE FIRE DISTRICT; INVESTMENT MEANS VITAL EQUIPMENT FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Today, U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten E. Gillibrand announced that the Pleasantdale Fire District will receive $52,868 in federal grants in Round 21 of the FY12 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. AFG awards are administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and are designed to help firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. The Pleasantdale Fire District will use funding to replace 10 selfcontained breathing apparatuses.

"With this funding, Pleasantdale firefighters can focus on their important work knowing that they have reliable new equipment," said Senator Schumer. "These investments will help ensure that our local heroes can continue their lifesaving work and will enable them to respond as effectively and safely as possible with more efficient gear."

"This is an important investment for the Pleasantdale Fire District," said Senator Gillibrand. "It's our responsibility to ensure our first responders have the most uptodate equipment to serve our communities.  The new air packs will help the Pleasantdale Fire District firefighters respond to emergencies more efficiently and effectively, and help save more lives." 

"This grant could not have come at a better time," Pleasantdale Fire District Chief David Manzer said. "Our existing selfcontained breathing apparatus is at the end of its lifespan. With this grant we will be now be able to use our current funds in other areas of our day to day operations. This grant is a great shot in the arm and morale booster for our members."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists local fire departments in programs and activities to improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency training for response to situations like terrorist attacks; enhancement of emergency medical services programs; development of health and safety initiatives; establishment of fire education and prevention programs; creation of wellness and fitness programs; and equipment and facility upgrades.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department's United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program's priorities and demonstrate financial need.  More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at  http://www. firegrantsupport.com/ .