WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the East Providence Fire Department will receive over $724,000 in federal funding to help purchase and install an 800 MHz radio communications system as well as a fire protection sprinkler system for three of the department's stations. The new communications system will ensure that the station's firefighters can communicate more expediently and effectively with other local responders.

"I am pleased to have helped the East Providence Fire Department secure this federal funding to purchase a state-of-the-art interoperable communications system. This new system will provide the city's firefighters with vital communications tools to help them respond to emergencies and perform their duties with increased efficiency and safety," said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, who wrote a letter of support for this federal funding. "We rely on our firefighters every day. They do a tremendous job of serving and protecting our communities and they deserve our commitment and support."

"Through the assistance of Senator Jack Reed, we now have the ability to provide lifesaving protection to all of our firefighters and visitors to our Fire Stations with the installation of sprinkler systems. We also will be able to equip the entire department with radios and the infrastructure to ensure state-wide communications interoperability through the 800 MHz radio system in the event of any emergency incident, helping to ensure a safe and efficient approach whenever and wherever our services are needed to protect the residents of Rhode Island," said Chief Joseph Klucznik. The City of East Providence will match 10% of the funding.

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 supports local departments by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and firefighting personnel.

Each February, Reed hosts his annual workshop to assist Rhode Island fire departments that are interested in applying for the grants.