Delgado Secures Over $100K For 2 Area Fire Departments

Rep. Antonio Delgado has announced financial assistance to both the Worcester and the East Worcester fire departments.  These grants, awarded through the Department of Homeland Security's FY 2019 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), include $76,190.48 for Worcester Hose Company, Inc, and $24,376.19 for East Worcester Hose Co. 1.

The AFG grant awards will be used to modernize safety equipment at both departments. Specifically, the Worcester Hose Company’s grant will allow the station to install a Source Capture Exhaust Removal System. The East Worcester Hose Co. 1 will use these funds to purchase a gas detection monitor, two thermal imaging cameras, a hose and a master steam nozzle.

“Our local fire departments take on enormous risks every day to protect our communities – it is essential that they have up-to-date safety equipment to keep their members safe on the job. I’m proud to announce these Assistance to Firefighters Grant funds to ensure our brave fire men and women are working with modern equipment that protects their health while fighting fires,” said Rep. Delgado. “I will continue to advocate for these programs that give our fire stations, especially those serving rural communities, the resources they need to keep our towns protected.”

“The Worcester Hose Company is pleased to receive a fire grant for installation of a Source Capture Exhaust Removal System in our station. The addition of this system will greatly reduce vehicle exhaust exposure to our firefighters and EMS personnel in the station,” said Jim Empie, Chief at Worcester Hose Company. “Firefighters have a 15% higher risk than the general population to contract cancer from this carcinogen. Completion of this project will bring the fire station in full compliance with local building codes. It will meet requirements of NFPA 1500 (Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program) and OSHA 29 CFR 1910 (Regulation on Respiratory Protection for Employees).”

This program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. Grant projects funded include professional training, wellness and fitness programs equipment, personal protective equipment, modifications to facilities, and supplies that support firefighting and non-affiliated EMS operations and safety.