Washington, D.C. – In an effort to enhance Rhode Island’s emergency response preparedness, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representative Jim Langevin today announced that the Johnston and Coventry fire departments will receive over $300,000 in Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) through the Department of Homeland Security. The Johnston Fire Department will receive $151,200 to purchase seven new, state-of-the-art 12-lead cardiac monitors. These new lifesaving heart monitors can help first responders check a patient’s heart and determine the proper course of action. The Coventry Fire Department will receive $149,843 to upgrade mobile radios and other communication devices.
“Emergency responders work like teammates in a relay race. Firefighters are often the first ones on the scene, and it is imperative that they have the equipment and communication tools they need to provide fast, appropriate treatment and save lives,” said Reed. “Our firefighters do a great job and this federal funding will help them improve their emergency response capabilities.”
“Our firefighters are the first line of protection for our lives and our property, often taking risks to protect us and keep our families and neighborhoods safe,” said Whitehouse. “These grants will provide much-needed equipment upgrades, giving our fire departments the tools they need to effectively respond to emergencies in our communities.”
“These grants will help local fire departments purchase and upgrade critical equipment that will enhance the safety of our first responders and of those they work so hard to protect,” said Langevin.
These stations were selected through a competitive peer review process based on the need to enhance response capabilities and protect communities from fire-related hazards.
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