Kanjorski Announces $17,290 for Blakely Hose Company #2

WASHINGTON - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) today announced that Blakely Hose Company #2 received a $17,290 federal grant for a diesel exhaust extraction system in the fire station.

The money is part of the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) grant program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Congressman Kanjorski has long been a vocal advocate in ensuring firefighters and other emergency responders are well-equipped.

"Firefighters are heroes who play a critical role in protecting our communities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. I am pleased that the federal government is providing the money for these men and women who are out there saving lives while risking their own. We owe it to them to do all we can to help provide equipment that protects them," Congressman Kanjorski said. "In order to provide essential emergency services, our firefighters need the most current equipment and training programs."

Blakely Fire Chief Tim Fanning explained that the station is utilized in various capacities by civic organizations, such as the Brownies and the American Red Cross.

"This system will serve more than just the Blakely Hose Company," Chief Fanning said.

The latest grant is the third FIRE grant for Blakely Hose Company #2, which received a $51,030 grant in 2003 and a $46,620 grant in 2002.

Congressman Kanjorski was among 286 cosponsors of the FIRE Act of 2000. More than $8.5 million in federal grants has been awarded to fire companies in the 11^th congressional district since the FIRE grant program began. To date, 80 fire companies in the 11^th congressional district have benefited from this federal grant program.

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