Safety Equipment Grants awarded to fire departments

Date: 2/20/2024

As part of a statewide program, a number of fire departments in the region were awarded monetary grants to apply to reimbursement costs for service-related tools and equipment.

The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $5 million in awards to 321 Massachusetts fire departments through the state’s Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program, which is now in its fourth year.

“Every single day, firefighters across Massachusetts put themselves in harm’s way to protect their communities,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “They deserve our thanks and our support. The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program is just one way we can express our appreciation for that selfless dedication.”

Agencies throughout Massachusetts were invited to apply to the grant program, which provides reimbursement on purchases of well over 100 different types of eligible equipment. Fire hoses, nozzles, turnout gear, ballistic protective equipment are covered along with items like gear washers and dryers, thermal imaging cameras, hand tools and extrication equipment, communications resources and hazardous gas meters, among others.

“From structure fires and water rescues to hazardous materials and building collapses, firefighters never know what life-threatening risks the next call will bring,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “These grants will support the purchase of fundamental tools and specialty equipment to help them do a dangerous job more safely.”

In Ludlow, Fire Chief Ryan Pease said his department will use the $19,000 grant to replace structural firefighting personal protective equipment that has exceeded its lifespan and is no longer in compliance with National Fire Protection Association standards.

“I am extremely thankful for this funding which will allow us to purchase and maintain equipment for our department members,” he said.

The Monson Fire Department posted to social media the congratulatory letter addressed to Chief Brian Harris from the State House advising of the $11,453.73 awarded to the agency.

“With each new challenge, the fire service in Massachusetts demonstrates its ability to adapt, overcome and continue providing the excellent level of services that the citizens of the commonwealth have come to expect,” Healey and Driscoll wrote.

In the Facebook post, the department indicated the funds will go towards the purchase of several pieces of equipment to include helmets, gloves, a ballistic vest, a rescue chainsaw and a laptop to be utilized for training.

In many cases, the purchase of the equipment will help departments attain compliance with Occupational Safety & Health Administration or National Fire Protection Association safety standards.

“The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grants are an investment in the health and safety of Massachusetts firefighters,” said State Fire Marshal Jon Davine. “The flexibility of the program is especially valuable because it allows each department to make purchases based on their specific needs and resources,” he said.

Three of Palmer’s four fire departments received funding with Bondsville and Three Rivers awarded more than $12,000 each. Palmer’s Fire District 1 posted on social media that their $15,500 award will go towards new turnout gear.

Other agencies receiving grant monies include Ware with $18,833.74, Belchertown with $14,121.46, Warren with $10,224 and Brimfield with $9,368.75.