After receiving funding from the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program, six local fire departments will receive a total of $1,132,922.44 in federal funding to improve firefighter safety.
Senator Susan Collins signed off on the grant, stating that firefighters "selflessly put their lives on the line to serve their towns and cities."
Portland, Auburn, Kennebunk, Waterville, and Belfast fire departments received grants. Wesley Volunteer Fire Department also received funding.
Each department plans to use the funding differently. Kennebunk Fire and Rescue received $569,978.09 to purchase new firefighter breathing apparatuses and RIT packs. Belfast Fire received $310,952.38 to purchase new firefighter breathing apparatuses, RIT Packs, and power lift systems.
Auburn Fire was granted $123,513.63 to purchase new firefighting hoses and nozzles.