The South Fire District in Middletown has received a FEMA grant to replace critical firefighter safety equipment that was nearly 20 years old. The $145,381 grant paid for new self-contained breathing apparatus units firefighters carry and rely on during dangerous situations. Funding was provided through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. “This grant came at a critical time for us as many of our breathing apparatus and air bottles are going out of service. This grant is a big impact on the citizens here in South Fire District,” Chief Michael Howley said in a statement.