Press Releases

Peckville, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded Wilson Fire Co. #1 an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) of $396,900. The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Wilson Fire Co. #1 served as host for the regional Operations and Safety grant application.  These funds allow for the purchase of 63 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units. This type of equipment is vital to the safety of firefighters. A SCBA unit ensures each firefighter will carry their own supply of breathable air, which can be life-saving in an oxygen deficient atmosphere.

Participating fire companies include:

• Eagle Hose Company No. 1
• Eureka Hose Co. No. 4, Inc.
• Olyphant Hose Co. No. 2
• Throop Hose Co. No. 1

“Having a personal supply of oxygen is one of the most essential pieces of equipment a firefighter will need to perform one of the most dangerous jobs out there. Our brave first responders make sacrifices every day to keep us safe, so we must do what we can to help them remain safe in their duties,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Appropriations Committee.

“The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is a critical resource to the communities in Northeastern Pennsylvania,” Cartwright said. “I will continue to support funding that ensures the safety of our men and women who put themselves in harm’s way and the residents they serve.”

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.

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