"This grant from the Department of Homeland Security will help to keep our firefighters safe while they perform their duties," commented Interim Chief John Skinner. "The job these men and woman do everyday is dangerous and it is very important that we provide them with the best protection possible to help them stay safer in their jobs."
The money is in the form of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). Since it began in 2001, the AFG has helped firefighters and first responders around the country in obtaining critically needed equipment, apparatus, training and other resources they need. In 2009, over 19,000 applications were filed for an AFG.
The Barrow County grant will be used to purchase 47 sets of structural firefighters turn out gear as well as some needed training aids.
The AFG for Barrow County Emergency Services was worked on by several members of the department. Forming the committee were Battalion Chief Mike Stoops, Lieutenant Ernest Weant, Lieutenant Randy Johnson and Firefighters Rob Aldred, Jeff Jones, Brenda Adams and Eric Beck.
"We are very excited to get this grant as it is very beneficial to the safety of our firefighters," stated Chief Skinner. "I also want to thank all the personnel that worked on the grant. This department works so well together and this grant is just an example of the work that can be accomplished because of this attitude,"
http://accesswdun.com/article/2010/6/229904