Washington  - Representative Thaddeus G. McCotter (R-Livonia) announced today the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded the Plymouth Community Fire Department a $66,600 grant and the City of Wayne a $6,480 grant for fire operations and firefighter safety.  The funding was awarded through the DHS’ 2003 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to enhance the ability of local fire departments to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities.

 

“We must protect and promote the safety and the skills of the firefighters who protect us,” said McCotter.  “These funds will give them access to the best training, the most advanced equipment, and up-to-date facilities they need and deserve as they continue to serve our communities.”

 

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), a division of the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate (EP&R) and assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.  These funds are used by the nation’s firefighters to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, fire fighter health and safety programs, new fire apparatus, emergency Medical Service programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety Programs.

 

The Plymouth and Wayne Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program funds will be used for training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.

 

In this—the seventh round of the 2003 Assistance to Firefighter Grants program—450 grants totaling almost $27 million were awarded to departments throughout the U.S. This announcement is the largest to date in 2003 in support of America’s firefighters as first responders in the neighborhoods and communities they serve.