Stevens Point Fire Department receives nearly $79,000 from Homeland Security
Stevens Point Fire Department received Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program award.
By Joe Bachman
Editor
STEVENS POINT — On Tuesday, Rep. Ron Kind (D-Stevens Point) hosted a grant presentation which awarded the Stevens Point Fire Department with $78,934.
The grant was received as a part of the Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The award funds will be used for extrication equipment, with the fire department only required to match 10 percent, or approximately $7,878.
“The nice thing about this equipment through FEMA is that it will increase our capability to our community,” said Lieutenant David Briggs. “Where the tools we had were capable of doing some things we needed, new technology and vehicles and new technology and machinery has forced our hand to have to up our game with out equipment.”
The grant will provide two sets of extraction equipment split between stations which includes: two cutters, two spreaders, two sets of stabilization equipment, and extended warranties. These are the first electric-driven tools in Portage County, and are portable, making it easy for emergency crews to use the equipment in and out of buildings with relative ease.
“Even though we’re running annual budget deficits in Washington, I hope this [check] doesn’t bounce — this is kind of important.” joked Kind.
Kind complimented the fire department, including Chief Finn who he continues to enjoying working with, even calling him a “master” at competitive grant programs.
“I’ve been a big believer in these fire grants through FEMA,” said Kind. “These guys – they lay it on the line everyday in this community. They don’t know what type of situation they’re going to wake up to and have to walk into during the day. I’m trying to make sure they get the training they need and the equipment they need to do their job as safely and effectively as possible.”
Rep. Ron Kind (D-Stevens Point) alongside Lieutenant David Briggs and Fire Chief Robert Finn. (Photo: Joe Bachman, Portage County Gazette)
