NJ volunteer fire dept. uses $100K grant to buy new equipment

The Demarest Volunteer Fire Department purchased 12 portable radios, which means all 33 volunteers now have their own equipment

By FireRescue1 Staff

DEMAREST, N.J. — A volunteer fire department purchased new equipment thanks to a $100,000 grant.

NorthJersey.com reported that the Demarest Volunteer Fire Department showcased 12 portable radios they were able to buy with the FEMA Assistance to Fireifghter Grant, meaning all of the 33 volunteers at the department now have their own equipment.

"It ensures public safety,” Fire Commissioner Jim Carroll said. "We went from an old analog system to state-of-the-art equipment."

Carroll and Chief John McLoughlin said Rep. Josh Gottheimer was essential in helping the department win the grant.

"We need to make sure that firefighters are getting what they need so they can keep themselves safe so they can protect their community." Gottheimer said.

I’m here in Demarest talking about Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) and how we can clawback more of our federal tax dollars to help cut our property taxes and keep our communities safe. Since taking office, we’ve been able to claw back 81% more dollars through the AFG (firefighter grants) program compared to past years. That’s saving us money on our local taxes and helping our firefighters and first responders get necessary equipment and training to keep them and our communities safe. Towns and departments who are interested in applying for these grants should contact my office at gottheimer.house.gov or (201) 389-1100.
Posted by Rep Josh Gottheimer on Tuesday, November 27, 2018