WASHINGTON, DC — In an effort to help improve Johnston's and Exeter's emergency response capabilities, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is awarding the Johnston Fire Department and Exeter Volunteer Fire Company #2 federal funds for training, equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.

The Johnston Fire Department will receive $79,650 and the Exeter Volunteer Fire Company #2 will receive $63,175. The money comes from the fiscal year (FY) 2006 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill which Reed supported in order to ensure that Rhode Island has the resources it needs.

"These are significant awards for the Johnston Fire Department and the Exeter Volunteer Fire Company #2 and are a result of the tremendous work that they are doing for their communities," stated Reed. "This federal investment will ensure that Johnston and Exeter's firefighters and emergency responders have the resources and training they need to continue protecting and assisting our citizens."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program awards one-year grants directly to local fire departments and emergency responders, enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies. This program seeks to support local departments by providing them the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and firefighting personnel. These awards will be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, fund fire fighter health and safety programs, acquire new fire apparatus, enhance EMS programs, and conduct fire prevention and safety programs.

"I am pleased with Senator Reed's aggressiveness in securing this critical funding for the Johnston Fire Department. It is important that our firefighters have the first rate equipment they need to help save lives. I commend Senator Reed for his commitment to our community, and I am extremely grateful for what he has done. This money will go a long way toward protecting the men and women who protect us," said Mayor Joseph M. Polisena.

"These systems will protect the health and safety of our active firefighters and others who use our stations. In a time when the many competing demands on state and local budgets and taxpayers make it impossible to fund these improvements locally, we appreciate the support of Senator Reed and FEMA in making this grant," said Peter V. Lacouture, President, Exeter Volunteer Fire Company #2.

Each February, Reed hosts his annual workshop to assist Rhode Island fire departments that are interested in applying for the grants. Communities across Rhode Island have won awards from the federal program since Reed began his workshops.