(Warwick, R.I.) Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) today announced funding for the Foster Volunteer Fire Company through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters program. The award comes out of the DHS Preparedness Directorate's Office of Grants and Training.

“This competitively awarded funding allows local fire departments and other first responders to purchase equipment needed to enhance daily operations and improve their emergency response capabilities,” said Langevin. “Giving local agencies the ability to make improvements beyond their standard equipment only makes for safer communities.” 

The Foster Volunteer Fire Company will receive $33,678 for interoperable radio equipment, allowing them to communicate with fire and rescue teams in Providence and Washington Counties and parts of eastern Connecticut, and to equip their four fire trucks with an interoperable dual-band (VHF and UHF) radio.  The remainder of the funding will go toward purchasing new equipment including hoses, nozzles, a thermal imaging camera, and wildfire fighting suits.

Through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, the Department of Homeland Security awards grants to firefighters, emergency response personnel and first responders throughout the country to enhance response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public. The grants provide resources for local fire departments and emergency medical services programs to receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs and buy equipment and response vehicles.

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