SNOWE, COLLINS ANNOUNCE HOMELAND SECURITY FUNDS FOR SEBAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senators Olympia Snowe (R-ME) and Susan Collins (R-ME) today announced that a $48,757 grant was awarded to the Sebago Fire Department from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funding is provided through the "Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program," or FIRE Act.

"Homeland Security grants are necessary to ensure that Maine's rural communities are able to receive proper fire training and equipment," Senators Snowe and Collins said in a joint statement. "This grant will truly enhance the efficiency and preparedness of the first responders at the Sebago fire station."

The funds allocated to the Sebago Fire Department will be used to for an Operations and Firefighting Safety Program which, consists of training, equipment, wellness and fitness as well as modifications to the fire station's facilities.

FIRE Act Grants were created with strong endorsement from Senators Snowe and Collins. These grants are awarded to fire departments across the United States to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, Emergency Medical Service programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety programs and to purchase new fire equipment.