March 16: Congresswoman Kaptur Announces Federal Award To Oberlin Fire Department

Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur today announced a federal award of $54,117 to the Oberlin Fire Department for operations and safety. Funding was made available through the Department of Homeland Security through the Assistance for Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

Eligible uses for the grant money are training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

"Congratulations to Chief (Dennis) Kirin and the department for winning this federal award," said Congresswoman Kaptur. "The community of Oberlin and the neighboring area depend on the department to protect lives and property every day of the year."

The Oberlin Fire Department responds to approximately 800 incidents a year in the city and township. The department operates two engines, two rescue units, a pumper-tanker, an aerial tower, a grass fire unit, and a special rescue team.

The AFG program funds fire departments and emergency medical service operations throughout the country to enhance response capabilities and support first responder activities. The program has provided approximately $4.6 billion in grants to first-responder organizations since 2001.

In 2007, the Oberlin department received a $382,000 grant to purchase a mobile "live fire simulator" for use in firefighter training.

During the recent budget battles in the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Kaptur joined a bipartisan effort to restore funding to the AFG grant program and to support local firefighters and emergency personnel. She voted in favor of an amendment by Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) to restore $510 million for fire grants. The House vote was 388-113 (186-6 among Democrats and 132-107 among Republicans).