Stabenow, Peters Announce Over $1,100,000 in Support of Fire Departments in Macomb and Oakland Counties

U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters today announced $1,109,608 for fire departments in 10 communities in Macomb and Oakland Counties to improve training and upgrade technology. This regional grant comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants program.

"Our firefighters in Macomb Country put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities," said Senator Stabenow. "These new resources will provide critical training and give our first responders the equipment they need to better serve the public and do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

“It is critical that firefighters and first responders have access to the tools and resources they need to keep their communities safe,” said Senator Peters. “This funding will help ensure that first responders across Southeast Michigan are properly equipped to respond when emergencies arise.”

"We are incredibly proud of the first responders who serve our community each day," said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. "These grants are a testament to the impact that they have throughout the county." 

“The award of this regional grant will allow our firefighter/medics to receive high quality, collaborative training opportunities while keeping these vital assets in their first response areas, which will benefit the residents with quick responses to their calls for service.  The video conference system will also allow for interdisciplinary collaboration among all participating agencies, opening up opportunities for regional training and networking,” said Chris Martin, Chief of the Sterling Heights Fire Department. “The award will allow us to upgrade technology while saving the citizens of Sterling Heights a significant amount of money, while enhancing the ability to share information both within and outside the city.”

Eligible fire departments and Emergency Medical Services organizations in Michigan and across the country can apply for Assistance to Firefighters Grants. These competitive grants help first responders purchase the equipment and obtain the training needed to handle fire-related hazards. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.