Sen. Fred Akshar announces $155,000 in grants for 12 local fire departments and emergency service squads

(ENDICOTT, NY) Senator Fred Akshar joined local volunteer firefighters and EMS workers from across the 52nd Senate District to announce 12 funding grants to support local volunteer fire departments and emergency services squads totaling $155,000.

The grants will go toward a variety of projects depending on the needs of each department. Projects range from rescue equipment upgrades and replacements to new communications technology to help local volunteers better serve and assist the residents of the 52nd District.

“We rely on our first responders during our most vulnerable times,” said Sen. Fred Akshar. “We turn to them during fires, floods, car accidents and medical emergencies and we breathe a sigh of relief when we see them arrive on the scene. I'm proud to be able to secure funding to assist these selfless members of our community to better serve and protect the people of the 52nd Senate District.”
 

“Thanks to this grant from Senator Akshar, the Maine Fire Department has purchased a battery powered rescue tool,” said Maine Fire Department Assistant Chief David Silverstein. “This lightweight but extremely powerful device enables a single firefighter to rapidly deploy and operate a combination cutter and spreader to free trapped victims. It will allow us to more effectively aid patients during responses with limited manpower. Working with our EMS partners, we can now ensure that victims are on their way to the hospital as quickly and safely as time permits.”

The grants were outlined in this year's New York State Budget and are administered through the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).

Full list of grants:

• Borden Hose Co - Mt. Upton/Guilford - $10,000
• Chenango Ambulance Services, Inc. - $35,000 - Power Stretchers
• Greene Fire Department - $15,000 - Dry suits, PFDs, Helmets, Propless Boat Motor
• Johnson City Fire Department - $10,000
• Lockwood Volunteer Fire Company - $10,000
• Maine Fire District No. 1 - $10,000
• Norwich Fire/Emergency Squad - $10,000 - Advanced Life Support Equipment
• Owego Fire Department - $20,000 - Technology Upgrades
• Spencer Fire Company - $10,000 - Refurbish rural water supply apparatus for structure and wildfire
• Union Center Fire Co. - $5,000 - Genesis Rescue Systems Combi Tool
• Weltonville Volunteer Fire Company Newark Valley - $10,000 - Gear dryer and hose dryer
• West Corners Fire Company No. 1 - $10,000 - Hydraulic Accident Rescue Tools