The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $5 million in state grants for fire departments across Massachusetts on Tuesday.
More than 300 municipalities throughout the Commonwealth are recipients of the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program, including Lynn, Swampscott, Nahant, Lynnfield, Peabody, and Marblehead.
The program reimburses recipients for the purchases of 135 different types of fire equipment. According to the office of Gov. Maura Healey, the goal of the grant program is to help fire departments obtain compliance with either the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or the National Fire Protection Association’s safety standards.
Some of the types of equipment most frequently funded through this program include hoses, boots, coats, and helmets. The grant also covers the acquisition of technological devices such as combustible and hazardous gas detectors, thermal imaging cameras, and portable handheld radios.
“For the second year in a row, many fire departments are using this program to provide their personnel with ballistic vests and helmets so they can make life-saving rescues in active shooter situations,” Secretary of Public Safety and Security Terrence Reidy said in a press release. “As we confront this growing threat and other emerging hazards, we are proud of the way Massachusetts fire departments have risen to every challenge.”
Through the grant program, Lynn was awarded $22,106.99, Swampscott received $18,000, Nahant received $12,497, Peabody was awarded $18,828.90, and Marblehead and Lynnfield were awarded $19,000 each.
“Every single day, firefighters across Massachusetts put themselves in harm’s way to protect their communities,” Healey said in the press release. “They deserve our thanks and our support. The Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program is just one way we can express our appreciation for that selfless dedication.”
