10/08/13 The Indiana Homeland Security Foundation has approved $373,804.72 in grant funding to local fire departments, law enforcement agencies and emergency medical services (EMS).
The focus of the foundation is to support the future of the public safety and to provide grant funding to local agencies for critical public safety needs across Indiana. Grants are provided up to $4,000. Public safety agencies were eligible to apply for projects such as:
· Equipping emergency responders with personal protective equipment
· Acquiring equipment for use by emergency responders
· Providing radios and technology equipment
· Training for emergency responders
Below is the breakdown of the grant funding amount and purpose for area counties.
In Marshall County the LaPaz Voluntary Fire Department Inc. received $3,846.80 to purchase a new saw, blades and cribbing. With these new materials the department will be able to better respond to emergencies, especially those that require stabilization.
In Fulton County Aubbeenaubbee Township received $3,963 to purchase replacement of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Cylinders. This will provide protection to certified emergency responders from hazardous environments. The SCBA cylinders have a 15-year life span, and the new cylinders will be replacing 14-year-old units.
In Kosciusko the Clay Township Volunteer Fire Department, Inc received $3,926 to purchase Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), six air bottles and an air mask. These will replace outdated items and will aid in the department’s response during an emergency.
In St. Joseph County the Clay Fire Territory/Clay Civil Township received $3,959.88 to purchase 12 computer tablets. They will be used for inspections and aid in pre-incident planning.
And the Penn Township Fire Department received $3,999.94 to purchase water rescue equipment. This will allow the department to increase water rescue capabilities on the St. Joseph River.
