Norfolk Volunteer Fire Department (NVFD) Chief Brian Hutchins announced last month that the department had received a grant to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), funded by the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “This equipment,” says Hutchins, “provides the most up-to-date protection available, uses the most state-of-the-art technology and will ensure our members can serve the community as safely and effectively as possible.”
This grant was awarded in July, in conjunction with the Winsted Fire Department as co-grantee. The departments were awarded $534,904.67 to be utilized to significantly enhance firefighter safety and improve emergency response capabilities in both communities.

The grant allowed the departments to purchase:

• 53 new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units
• 53 spare air bottles
• Accountability software to improve incident tracking and firefighter safety
• Two Rapid Intervention Team packs
• Comprehensive training for all members on the new equipment

SCBA equipment is among the most critical pieces of firefighter protective gear, enabling safe operation in hazardous and smoke-filled environments. This new equipment will replace outdated units, ensuring that firefighters in Norfolk and Winsted have the most up-to-date respiratory protection available
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by FEMA to help fire departments and first responder organizations obtain vital equipment, training and resources. Through this grant, Norfolk and Winsted will continue their mission of protecting life, property and the environment with the highest standards of safety.

“The award of this grant,” says Hutchins, “saves the taxpayers of Norfolk $186,570, covering the full cost of this critical equipment without the use of local funds. We are grateful to FEMA, the AFG program and the residents of Norfolk for their continued support.”