Fire departments in three Northeast Arkansas towns are set to upgrade life-saving equipment thanks to a significant federal grant award totaling $672,819.04.
The Lake City, Bay, and Monette fire departments received the funding through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which aims to help fire agencies improve their response capabilities and provide firefighter safety. The regional grant will allow the departments to replace outdated self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) packs that no longer meet current safety standards.
Monette Fire Department Training Officer Shawn Nance explained that the SCBAs are critical pieces of equipment that enable firefighters to safely enter hazardous environments and breathe clean air.
“We applied for the money to be used for new SCBAs, which is the equipment that allows us to go into structures and breathe safe air,” Nance said.
According to Nance, Monette’s portion of the funding will provide 16 new air bottles, masks, and a cascade air-filling system to support the updated gear.
The grant’s focus on improving firefighter safety and operational effectiveness comes as many departments face challenges keeping up with rising costs for modern equipment.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is operated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and regularly supports fire departments across the country with funds aimed at enhancing safety and preparedness.