Peters, Stabenow Announce Support for Macomb County Fire Departments

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today announced $346,364 for the St. Clair Shores, Roseville and Eastpointe Fire Departments to purchase new handheld, vehicle and headset radios to meet the latest standards for emergency communications equipment. This grant comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants program.

“The St. Clair Shores, Roseville and Eastpointe Fire Departments work closely together to protect our homes, our families and our businesses,” said Senator Peters. “These new resources will help ensure firefighters and first responders have the equipment necessary to communicate with one another, do their jobs safely, and protect the community during emergency situations.”

“Our firefighters in Macomb County put their lives on the line to protect our families and homes,” said Senator Stabenow. “Thanks to these new resources, these brave men and women will have the equipment they need to help them do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

"This is a great example of regional cooperation and working together to identify and utilize alternative funding opportunities to keep our residents safe,” said Mayor Kip Walby, St. Clair Shores. “We appreciate the AFG program, especially here in Michigan given the reductions in municipal finances through our State. We thank our Senators who support this critical program."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants program has positively affected public safety by providing nearly $7.3 billion since 2001 for infrared cameras, personal protective gear, hazmat detection devices, improved breathing apparatuses, and interoperable communications systems. This equipment is critical to ensuring the safety of firefighters as they respond to emergencies and protect our communities. 

Eligible fire departments and Emergency Medical Services organizations in Michigan and across the country can apply for Assistance to Firefighters Grants. These competitive grants help first responders purchase the equipment and obtain the training needed to handle fire-related hazards. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.