The Rhode Island fire departments recently received $106,668 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program for the purchase of needed equipment and gear.
The Central Falls Fire Department was awarded $59,048. It will use the funds to purchase a washer/extractor dryer for equipment and will replace its self-contained breathing apparatus air compressor refill system.
The Kington Fire Department was awarded $34,286. It will purchase air masks, gloves, hoods, uniforms, and other items.
The Albion Fire District in Lincoln will receive $13,334 for a protective-gear washing machine to deep-clean gear and protect firefighters from hazardous carcinogens, chemicals, biological agents, and particulate matter.
“These federal funds will support our firefighters and improve public safety. I was pleased to work closely with fire departments and local leaders in Central Falls, Kingston, and Albion to help deliver these funds,” U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) said. “I will continue doing everything I can at the federal level to help our firefighters protect our communities and improve emergency response capabilities.”
Reed is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, which oversees FEMA funding. The 2018 Omnibus Appropriations law included $350 million in competitive AFG funding.
AFG has awarded $36 million to first responders nationwide since 2001.