Press Releases

Pen Argyl, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) awarded Lookout Fire Company #1 of Pen Argyl with an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The Lookout Fire Company will receive $88,572 to purchase 15 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units. Each unit will include a harness/backpack, face piece, and two air cylinders. SCBA units are worn by rescue workers, firefighters, and others to provide breathable air.

“Emergency response systems are an invaluable part of our protective infrastructure,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “That is why I am a strong supporter of 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 have received this FEMA Grant and its ability to allow us to purchase new Scott SCBA Air Packs for our department. These new air packs will ensure safety and protection to our members and allow us to continue to provide the necessary fire protection for our community,” said Dean Parsons, Lookout Fire Company #1’s Fire Chief. “We would like to thank Congressman Cartwright for his support of programs like the FEMA Assistance to Firefighter grants and he and his staffs’ help with obtaining this FEMA grant.”

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.