New York, NY – The Fulton Fire Department will be purchasing a new, well-equipped fire truck to replace a 26-year-old truck that has been out of service since January of this year, as well as no longer compliant with National Fire Protection Association standards 

“Without this federal grant, we would not have been able buy this equipment,” said David Eiffe, the department’s Assistant Fire Chief.  “Our older equipment has often been inoperable, forcing us to borrow a truck from a neighboring volunteer fire department.  We can’t serve our city that way; the NFPA standards are there for a reason.”

The funds for the truck come from an Assistance to Firefighters Grant, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  “The truck will cost $450,000,” said Dale McShine, Director of Grant and Preparedness for FEMA’s Region II.  The federal share will amount to $428,572, and we are very pleased to play such an important role in the safety of Fulton’s citizens.”

Fulton has a population of some 12,000 citizens.  Its fire department, with 36 career firefighters, responds to a total of some 2,200 fire, emergency medical service calls, and car and industrial accidents, each year, said Chief Eiffe.  “This new truck will be able to carry 750 gallons of water and pump 1,750 gallons per minute.  It’s also equipped with a foam system that is highly effective in putting out house fires.”

The Chief said also that, in addition to saving taxpayers money that was needed for repairs of his outdated trucks, the new truck will contribute to the safety of our citizens for at least 15 years. 

The Fulton Fire Department has two fire stations, on the east and west sides of the Oneida River.  The new equipment will be located in the west-side station. 

Assistance to Firefighter Grants provide support to numerous firehouses throughout FEMA’s Region II, which includes New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.  The program provides critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

Tania Hedlund, FEMA’s Region II Chief for Grants, reports that in fiscal year 2014, the Region awarded 273 grants totaling $95.6 million.