Press Releases

Scranton, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded the Scranton Fire Department with an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The Scranton Fire Department will receive $91,591 to purchase 130 harness personal escape systems, which can be used to evacuate a building. The grant program lists harness systems as high priority operations and safety equipment.

“First responders are true heroes. Each time they go into action, they may be putting themselves in danger,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “I am vocal advocate for programs like the AFG, which help our first responders have the equipment and training they need to protect themselves as they keep the people and property of our communities safe.”

“We are grateful to Congressman Cartwright for this grant which will allow us to purchase an integrated harness device for our firefighters. It will increase personal safety while fighting interior structure fires.  This system may actually save the life of a firefighter in the line of duty,” said Deputy Chief Allen Lucas. 

The purpose of the AFG is to award competitive grants directly to fire departments to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel.  Since 2001, the AFG program has provided approximately $7.1 billion in grants to first-responder organizations to obtain much-needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training.