Petersburg Fire Department announced today that in early May, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded it a $625,250 Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) Grant. The grant will be used to purchase 80 sets of personal protective equipment (PPE), or “turnout gear” and 35 self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA).
“The grant process is extremely competitive, so the Petersburg Fire Department is extremely pleased to receive this funding to purchase individual personal protective equipment that will deliver maximum levels of protection to our firefights operating in dangerous environments,” said Petersburg Deputy Fire Chief Brian Sturdivant. “I would like to thank all the members of the fire department who assisted with the grant process.”
The competitive grants are intended to help fund professional training programs, update equipment and facilities, and provide new supplies to help first responders handle hazards efficiently and effectively.