Area firefighters may soon breathe a little easier thanks to thousands of dollars worth of federal funding allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
The awards — $22,477 for the Cowlesville Fire Company and $66,939 for Perry Center — will be used to purchase equipment relating to self-contained breathing apparatuses, devices worn by rescue worker and firefighters to provide breathable air in situations immediately dangerous to life or health.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the equipment they need to stay safe on the job,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer in a recent release. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our first line of defense for safety and security. By allowing courageous firefighters to purchase new breathing equipment, this grant will help ensure their health and safety in any emergency.”