Medina FD will seek grant to replace 4 defibrillators

Fire Department welcomes public to open house on Sunday

MEDINA – The Fire Department has the Village Board’s permission to seek a federal grant for about $150,000 to replace four defibrillators.

Captain Jonathan Higgins said the department has four defibrillators that are nearly a decade old, and cost $5,000 annually to be checked and maintained.

The Medina FD last month was awarded a $77,837 grant for new fire hoses, nozzles and a thermal imaging camera. That grant is through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

Higgins said many departments receive the AFG awards year after year. He urged the Village Board to try for another grant through the program.

The board agreed to pay Grantmaster Inc. $2,400 to prepare the application for the Fire Department. Higgins said that is less than the $5,000 the department has in its budget for grant writing services.

Higgins also invited the Village Board and public to attend the Fire Department’s annual open house on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (A special firefighter memorial service will be conducted at 10 a.m. in front of City Hall at 600 Main St.)

The open house is part of National Fire Safety Week, and allows local residents and business owners a chance to interact with their firefighters and learn fire safety information.

This free event is open to all ages, with special family activities planned throughout the day. There will be a Fire Safety House where people can practice home escape plans and learn about home fire safety. There will also be opportunities to learn proper fire extinguisher techniques, practice calling 911, and to receive information about smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

The community can also see fire trucks (including antique ones) and tour the fire station at 600 Main St.

Special guests and demonstrations include the Medina Police Department K9 Unit, Orleans County SWAT Team, and the New York State Police “seat belt convincer,” an interactive ride allows people to experience a simulated vehicle crash and gain an appreciation for why seat belts matter.

Also present will be the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office “Safe Child” program, where children can be finger printed, and have their child safety seats checked for proper installation.

The department will also have a bounce house for kids to enjoy, as well as food available for purchase.