BOSTON, MA – Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John Kerry and Congressman John F. Tierney today announced that the Topsfield Fire Department has received a federal grant of $8,000 under the Department of Homeland Security’s Fire Prevention and Safety Grant Program.

Senator Kennedy said, “The brave men and women who serve in the Topsfield Fire Department work dutifully and courageously to keep their communities safe. These funds will allow firefighters in Topsfield to do their jobs more safely and effectively, and I commend the members of the Department for their skill and dedication.”

"This funding will allow Topsfield Fire Department to respond more effectively to emergency situations in the community, improving the safety of both residents and firefighters," Senator Kerry said. "I commend DHS for giving the Topsfield firefighters the resources necessary to perform their very important jobs."

"Our first responders face serious risks in safe-guarding our communities. The equipment to be acquired with this grant will enable our public safety personnel to work safely and effectively in the cold New England winters. I am happy that we can help provide the resources they need to continue their record of excellent service," said Congressman John Tierney (D-Salem).

"We are excited to be able to protect our firefighters when they must participate in cold water and ice rescues. Additionally, the grant includes a Rescue Sled for the Beverly Fire Department Dive Rescue Team. In the spirit of cooperation and regionalization, we felt it would be appropriate to augment the regional dive team with this important equipment. This dive team is used by communities all over the North Shore for technical ice and water rescues and recoveries. By giving them the same equipment that we have, we will be able to work seamlessly at the emergency scene," said Captain Jen Collins-Brown of the Topsfield Fire Department.

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