$77K federal grant approved for Medina Fire Department

File photo by Tom Rivers – Congressman Chris Collins, right, visits with Captain Jonathan Higgins at the Medina Fire Department on May 8. Collins announced today the department will receive $77,837 for equipment.

MEDINA – The Medina Fire Department has been approved for a $77,837 grant for new fire hoses, nozzles and a thermal imaging camera.

Congressman Chris Collins (R-Clarence) announced the funding for Medina, as well as a $160,000 grant for the Naples Fire Department. The grants were allocated through the Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, which is designed to help first responders improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.

“Providing the necessary funding for our first responders is an excellent and prudent use of federal money,” Collins said. “Our local heroes need the proper resources to do their jobs and protect our communities. Many small fire companies and emergency medical service providers are unable to purchase necessary equipment upgrades due to financial limitations.”

Collins said the funds will help “create more efficient and effective first responders.”

Medina will replace hoses and nozzles that are 25 years old, said Jonathan Higgins, a captain with the department.

“The fire department will add a thermal imaging camera on our first due fire engine that could be used to locate trapped victims or firefighters in structure fire and has a multitude of uses in the fire service,” Higgins said. “This equipment will enhance our ability to provide better protection to the residents in our community as well as the surrounding towns and villages. The Village of Medina Fire Department would like to thank Congressman Chris Collins for his assistance in securing this grant for our community and our fire department.”