Washington – Congressman Bill Shuster is pleased to announce that several area fire companies have been awarded a $183,000 Assistance to Firefighters Fire Prevention & Safety Program Award through the Department of Homeland Security.

“This is a great opportunity for these local fire companies,” said Shuster. “The importance of this grant can’t be overstated in terms of public outreach. It will fund a regional project that crosses six counties and provide essential equipment for committed firefighters who risk their lives every day as volunteers to protect our communities.” 

This fire prevention grant, secured with the support of Shuster, will continue to fund the fire prevention project, Safe At Home.  The Phoenix Volunteer Fire Company of Hollidaysburg is the “host company” and will administer the $183,375 fire grant to 13 other fire departments in Blair, Cambria, Allegheny, Indiana, Luzerne, and Westmoreland counties.

The money will be used to purchase seven fire extinguisher training simulators, 3,900 dual sensor smoke alarms, 150 strobe light smoke alarms, 14 LCD projectors and screens and associated educational materials.

“This award will be used towards fire safety and awareness programs that focus on in-home fire safety and prevention programs. And will also be used to purchase and install smoke detectors in homes to give early warning in the event of a fire allowing the time needed to exit the home and save lives,” said Tony DiBona, Phoenix Fire Chief.

The following fire companies will benefit from the fire prevention grant:

Allegheny - North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department, North Fayette Township

Blair - Lakemont Volunteer Fire Company, Logan Township

           Phoenix Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1, Hollidaysburg

Cambria - Ashville Volunteer Fire Company, No. 1

                Dauntless Fire Company, Ebensburg

                Gallitzin Fire Company, No. 1 

                Hope Fire Company, Northern Cambria 

                Nanty Glo Fire Department 

                Portage Volunteer Fire Company 

                Revloc Volunteer Fire Company, Cambria Township

Indiana - Homer City Volunteer Fire Company

              Young Men's Volunteer Fire Company, Blairsville

Luzerne - Trucksville Volunteer Fire, EMS, and Rescue, Kingston Township

Westmoreland - Bolivar Volunteer Fire Company

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