Town Fire Departments Win State Grants

The Franklin and Medway Fire Departments have both been awarded funds through the Massachusetts Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program, administered by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) and the Department of Fire Services (DFS).

This funding is part of a statewide initiative by the Healey-Driscoll Administration, which awarded a total of $5 million to 307 fire departments across Massachusetts to support the purchase of critical safety equipment.  Franklin received  $21,649.08 through the program while Medway received  $14,234.05.

The Franklin Fire Department said it will use the funds to purchase gas- or battery-powered scene lighting and structural firefighting gear to enhance on-scene visibility, improve safety and strengthen operational readiness.

“We’re grateful to EOPSS and DFS for their continued support,” said Fire Chief Chuck Allen. “This funding helps ensure our personnel have the equipment they need to operate safely and effectively.”

“Firefighters face immediate danger at fires, structural collapses, hazmat incidents, and countless other calls,” said Secretary of Public Safety & Security Gina Kwon. “They also face the insidious threat of occupational cancer from exposure to toxic gases and substances. The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grants support equipment to protect them from all these risks.”

“The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program funds the tools, gear, and equipment that our firefighters use to protect themselves, each other, and the residents of their communities,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “It’s a smart investment in safety for the fire service and the Commonwealth.”