WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman and U.S. Congressman Mike Ross (AR-04) today announced  two Arkansas fire departments will receive grants from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program. The Bonnerdale Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Hot Spring County will receive a $245,813 grant and the Calion Volunteer Fire Department in Union County will receive a $207,505 grant.  The funds will be used to acquire a new vehicle for each department.

“Our firefighters deserve the very best tools to keep them safe while on the job.  These new vehicles will be a great benefit as they help save lives under dangerous conditions,” Pryor said. “It’s a smart investment for the local fire departments and their communities.” 

“These funds will provide our firefighters with the appropriate tools they need to protect Arkansas families and communities,” Boozman said. “Our firefighters play an important safety role and these vehicles will help improve operations to continue the commitment of safeguarding citizens.” 

“Our communities rely on local fire fighters and first responders to help protect our homes and keep our families safe,” said Ross.  “I am pleased to help announce these federal investments in public safety because we must help ensure our local fire departments and first responders have the equipment they need to quickly answer the needs of their citizens.” 

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is an important component of the larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. 

AFG provides fire departments and EMS organizations the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.  In Fiscal Year 2011, DHS Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program will award approximately $380 million directly to fire departments and EMS organizations to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel with respect to fire and all other hazards.