Senator Collins Announces More Than $1.1 Million for Firefighter Safety

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that six Maine fire departments have been awarded a combined total of $1,132,922.44 in federal grants through the Fiscal Year 2023 Assistance to Firefighter (AFG) grant program. This funding will be used to upgrade critical equipment, personal protective gear, and support services.

“Firefighters across Maine and the country courageously and selflessly put their lives on the line to serve their towns and cities,” said Senator Collins. “This funding will allow Maine firefighters to acquire updated equipment, helping to ensure they are equipped with the best tools available to protect themselves as they assist our families and communities.”

Specifically, the funding will be allocated as follows:

1. Kennebunk Fire Rescue - $569,978.09 to purchase new firefighter breathing apparatus and RIT packs
2. Belfast Fire and Ambulance Department - $310,952.38 to purchase new firefighter breathing apparatus, RIT Packs, and power lift systems
3. Auburn Fire Department - $123,513.63 to purchase new firefighting hose and nozzles
4. Wesley Volunteer Fire Department - $52,720 to purchase firefighter turnout gear
5. Portland Fire Department - $45,454.54 to support firefighter wellness program
6. Waterville Fire Department - $30,303.80 to purchase equipment to clean personal protective gear

Earlier this month, a bipartisan bill coauthored by Senators Collins and Gary Peters (D-MI) to extend federal programs that help support local fire departments across the country was signed into law. The Fire Grants and Safety Act reauthorizes Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA). These programs are used by local fire departments to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services.

The Fire Grants and Safety Act reauthorizes $95 million for USFA – a nearly $20 million increase from current authorized levels, and extends the authorization for the SAFER and AFG programs until 2028.

Senator Collins has been a longstanding advocate for Maine’s first responders. This year alone, she secured nearly $31 million through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for 24 projects throughout the state that will support local law enforcement, fire stations, and emergency response services.

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