Peters, Stabenow Applaud Over $640,000 in Support of Southeastern Michigan Fire Departments

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow applauded the announcement that two fire departments in Southeastern Michigan will receive $643,105 in funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The Brandon Fire Department will receive $11,286, which will fund an air unit to support their self-contained breathing apparatus. The St. Clair Shores Fire Department will receive $631,819, which will be used to purchase a new hybrid ladder/pumper fire truck.

“Communities in Southeastern Michigan rely on firefighters and first responders to safeguard families and business when emergency strikes,” said Senator Peters. “This funding will ensure that Brandon Fire Department and St. Clair Shores Fire Department will have the right equipment to protect themselves and public during emergencies.”

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

“This grant will provide our department with the funds to purchase a vital new air unit used when firefighters are trapped and need additional air while awaiting help from rescue workers,” Chief David Kwapis, Brandon Fire Department. “Thank you to Senators Peters and Stabenow for supporting this critical funding program that helps our department purchase equipment our firefighters and first responders use to safely do their jobs.”

“We are very happy that the hard working people of St. Clair Shores are being rewarded for the ongoing support of their fire department,” Ryan Koepp, Interim Fire Chief, St. Clair Shores Fire Department.  “We understand that this award comes with a great amount of responsibility, and we are continually committed to good stewardship of the people’s money. We thank leaders like Senators Peters and Stabenow for their support of this very important funding program.”

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.