Irvington Fire Department awarded $149,625

Lowey and Engel Announce $149,625 for Irvington Fire Department
02/25/09

WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY-18) and Congressman Eliot Engel (NY-17) today announced that the Irvington Fire Department will receive a federal grant of $149,625 to purchase new breathing apparatus.

"First responders serve their communities by responding to emergencies and helping those in need of assistance," said Congresswoman Lowey. "It is our responsibility to do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy on the job. I am pleased the Department of Homeland Security is addressing this need in Irvington."

Congressman Eliot Engel said, "This program is designed to give our first responders the equipment they need to perform their heroic tasks. Scott Air Packs are vital to any firefighter, allowing them to combat fires while avoiding the perils of smoke inhalation and heat damage to lungs. These packs will help to keep our firefighters safe while they are keeping Irvington residents safe."

"This is great news," said Irvington Fire Chief Kenneth Mastropieto. "These new air packs will help protect a lot of fire fighters in the department and will allow them do their jobs more safely and effectively."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program which is administered by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Grants and Training in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration, awards grants directly to fire departments and EMS agencies. Funds may be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, fire prevention and safety programs, and to purchase new fire equipment.