WASHINGTON, DC - In an effort to enhance fire department operations and safety and equip firefighters with the resources they need to save lives, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Representatives James Langevin and David Cicilline today announced over $374,418 for the Warwick, Harrisville, and Cranston Fire Departments.  These federal funds were awarded through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighter Grants program to upgrade department communication systems and provide important equipment upgrades to firefighters.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect the public and these funds will help strengthen their safety and those they serve in the community.  We are pleased these federal funds will help upgrade equipment and communication systems to help speed response time,” said the members of the Congressional delegation in a joint statement.

The Warwick Fire Department will receive $193,898 in radio communications equipment upgrades to keep first responders in close contact throughout any local, regional, or statewide emergency through the state-wide 800 MHz radio system.  The Department will use the federal funds to pay for command and rescue vehicle radios, fixed and vehicular repeater systems, portable and base station radios, and a communications recorder. 

The Harrisville Fire Department will receive $102,600 to upgrade Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus units as well as thermal imaging cameras used to quickly reach fire victims.

The Cranston Fire Department will receive $77,920 to install infrastructure upgrades, including fire alarm systems.