Fire Grants for Arkansas Total $1.6 Million

Some Arkansas fire departments are set to receive a total of $1.6 million in federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

In Arkansas' First Congressional District, the Paragould Fire Department will receive $315,109 through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program to hire firefighters. In Tyronza, the Heafer Volunteer Fire Department will receive $24,035 from the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program for operations and safety, which include training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to fire stations.

In Arkansas's Second Congressional District, two fire departments will receive funding through SAFER grants to hire firefighters. The Conway Fire Department will receive $319,050, and the Searcy Fire Department will receive $966,552.

U.S. Senators Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor along with U.S. Representatives Marion Berry and Vic Snyder today announced the grants.

"As first responders, local firefighters play an integral role in keeping our communities safe," said Lincoln. "This federal funding will help our fire departments maintain staffing levels as well as provide them with the best training and equipment so they can protect families. I will continue to do all I can to ensure that Arkansas receives the funds and resources we need to keep our state safe."

Firefighters run in a burning building when others are running out to safety. They need the very best equipment, training and manpower we can provide in dangerous situations, Pryor said. Im pleased these grants will help provide the necessary resources to keep firefighters safe as they protect our communities.

Firefighters who serve rural areas face unique challenges and, often, scarce resources, said Berry. Therefore it is imperative we do everything in our power to ensure they have the equipment, training, and facilities necessary to be prepared for all types of emergencies. These federal dollars will create and save jobs while helping our first responders continue to honorably serve their communities."

"The communities of Searcy and Conway rely on their first responders to keep their residents safe during emergencies, said Snyder. I am very pleased they are receiving this assistance to hire more firefighters."

Both SAFER and AFG programs are funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

SAFER grants are awarded to fire departments and volunteer fire departments to expand the number of firefighters available to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public with respect to fire and all other hazards. Approximately $190 million in SAFER grants will be distributed from FY2008 funds.

AFG grants provide fire departments and EMS organizations the tools, training, and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel. AFG will award approximately $500 million in competitive grants from FY 2008 funds. Read more atarkansasmatters.com.

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