Washington – Congressman Bill Shuster is pleased to announce that the Brownsville Fire Co. No. 1 has been awarded a Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) in the amount of $140,315. The funds will be used to purchase new equipment for 30 firefighters.

“This is long overdue for the first responders at Brownsville Fire Co. No. 1 and the people they serve and protect every day,” Shuster said.  “This funding will allow them to buy all new fire resistant gear and provide the necessary equipment to keep their firefighters safe while keeping Fayette County safe.”

The grant money will be put towards the purchase of 30 sets of turnout gear, which consist of fire resistant boots, helmets, Nomex hoods, pants, and coats. Brownsville will also be able to buy all new self-breathing apparatus units for their active duty firefighters.

“Our equipment is old and outdated. We are very appreciative to Congressman Bill Shuster and his staff who made it possible for us to receive this grant. This money will be a big help and allow us to put the proper equipment on our firemen and keep them safe,” said Brownsville Fire Co. No. 1 Chief Clark Sealy.

The primary goal of the AFG is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations. Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders to obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

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