SHELTON — The Shelton Fire Department has received a $60,729 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D- Conn., announced last week.
The grant will ensure that the Shelton Fire Department has the training and resources needed to provide life-saving services. Shelton’s share was part of $722,654 in grant money also awarded to Bridgeport, Fairfield and Oxford fire departments.
“The personal protective equipment provided by the AFG-S award will help to ensure that our 256 volunteer firefighters of the Shelton Fire Department will continue to be well protected as we adapt to all challenges placed upon America’s first responders,” Shelton Fire Chief Francis T. Jones III said.
Jones said fire service now requires an all-hazard response team. As a team, he said the Shelton Fire Department and Echo Hose Ambulance responds to fires, rescues, hazardous materials incidents, technical situations, natural disasters, and now pandemics.
“As we do each and every day,” Jones said, “our combined emergency services shall continue to meet these challenges to assist our community by the support of our elected local, state and federal leadership all working together to support America’s first responders of fire, EMS and police.”
Himes said public investment in fire departments will improve the safety of communities for years to come.
“The brave men and women who staff our fire departments deserve the most up-to-date equipment and training to save lives and keep themselves safe,” Himes added. “I’m happy to see federal funding protecting the life and safety of Southwest Connecticut residents.”
According to FEMA, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant works to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations.
