Dearborn, Mich. – Today, U.S. Representative John D. Dingell (D-MI15) announced that the Flat Rock Fire Department has received a federal grant totaling  $65,365 for fiscal year (FY) 2010 from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  The grant will be used to improve operations and safety. 

"At a time when our communities are forced to cut back to make ends meet, this funding is essential for our first responders in Flat Rock,” said Dingell.  "Our firefighters and first responders are extraordinarily heroic in their efforts and dedication to duty.  We must ensure that they have the training, equipment and resources they need to do their job well to keep our communities safe."

The AFG program provides funding to local fire departments to help them improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency response training, emergency medical services programs, health and safety initiatives, fire education and prevention programs; and equipment and facility upgrades.  Programs are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the grants are awarded on a competitive basis.  More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/.

Congressman Dingell has been a longtime leading advocate for first responders and funding for their work.  Dingell, in fact, just met yesterday with fire chiefs from throughout the 15th District.  Moreover, he continues vigorous oversight in the 112th Congress to see that these critical funding programs stay intact to ensure that our firefighters have the manpower, resources and tools to keep our communities safe. 

 

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