Senators Elizabeth Warren and William “Mo” Cowan and Representative Stephen F. Lynch announced recently that the Town of Walpole has been awarded a grant through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  The federally-funded award, in the amount of $116,209, will be used to replace an antiquated fire alerting system.  The new system will connect the police department and all three fire stations in Walpole for more efficient and effective communications.  

Funded by Congress, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is designed to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, EMS programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety Programs, and fund the purchase of new firefighting equipment.   The total of all Fiscal Year 2012 awards will represent a $337.5 million investment to enhance fire and EMS service delivery throughout the United States.

“I’m glad that the Walpole Fire Department has secured this fire grant, which will help make sure our firefighters have the critical resources and equipment they need,” said Senator Warren. “Firefighters work tirelessly and courageously to keep our cities and towns safe, and this grant program helps support our local fire departments so they can continue to protect our communities.”

“The best way to enable our firefighters to protect Massachusetts families is to ensure they have access to the most up-to-date equipment and resources. This funding will make all the difference for Walpole firefighters in keeping the community safe every time that alarm bell goes off,” said Senator Cowan.

“I want to commend Chief Tim Bailey and the entire Walpole Fire Department for their hard work and commitment in securing this fire grant,” Congressman Stephen F. Lynch said.  “Our firefighters are on the front lines every day and they need the proper equipment and training to do their jobs effectively.  This federal funding will go a long way in providing the Walpole Fire Department with the necessary tools to keep their community and themselves safe.”

“The Assistance to Firefighters grant will help us purchase much-needed equipment to replace a fire alerting system that is more than 20 years old.  The new system will help our firefighters to better respond to emergencies and protect the community of Walpole,” Chief Tim Bailey said.