Hook And Ladder Grant To Provide Equipment, Training

By Andrew Gorosko

The Newtown Hook and Ladder Volunteer Fire Company will receive a federal grant of more than $80,000 to acquire firefighting equipment and fire training materials.

 Hook and Ladder Fire Chief Dave Ober said November 5 the grant money will be used to buy new firefighting uniforms for new fire company members, as well as to replace the uniforms of existing members. The uniforms include helmets, coats, pants, boots, and gloves.

Besides the $80,717 in federal funding, the fire company will contribute more than $8,000 toward the spending program, Chief Ober said.

The program will allow the fire company to buy audiovisual equipment and computer software for firefighter training, he said. The equipment also may be used for fire prevention training for the public.

The fire company will use the grant to purchase two specialized compressed-air breathing units, which would be used in rescuing firefighters who become trapped in burning structures.

Also, devices that will enhance existing firefighter air packs will be purchased.

Chief Ober said firefighters hope to obtain the new equipment and materials within the next three months. Hook and Ladder applied for the grant last spring. It is the first time Hook and Ladder has applied for such a grant. Late last year, Botsford firefighters used a federal grant to create an exercise room for members at the Botsford Firehouse.

The town’s three other fire companies are located in Sandy Hook, Hawleyville, and Dodgingtown.

The grant obtained by Hook and Ladder will both increase the fire company’s capabilities by providing new equipment, and also help train members in firefighting techniques, providing a dual long-term benefit, Chief Ober said.

Besides Hook and Ladder, six other fire companies in the state received grants in the current round of federal funding. In this area, the Stepney Volunteer Fire Company in Monroe will receive a $63,317 grant. Other fire companies in the state receiving grants are located in Jewett City, Marlborough, Colchester, Milford, and Fairfield.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is distributing the grants.

“Newtown’s firefighters serve the community with courage and professionalism. Their ability to fight fires and protect the community will receive a tremendous boost with this federal help,” US Rep Nancy Johnson said in a prepared statement.