The Fort Smith Fire Department secured nearly $700,000 through the federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, according to the City of Fort Smith.
The city said this marks the second time the Fort Smith Fire Department has been selected for this federal grant, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program provides direct financial support to fire departments and EMS organizations for equipment, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources.
“We are grateful to FEMA and the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for awarding Fort Smith $700,000 to replace critical equipment,” Mayor George McGill said. “This investment ensures our firefighters have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively, while protecting the people of Fort Smith. Our community is stronger and safer because of this support.”
The city said the funding will be used to replace the department’s self-contained breathing apparatus (SBCA/Air Packs), which helps provide breathable air while firefighters respond to potentially hazardous environments.
โOur self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA/Air Packs) are reaching the end of their life cycle, so receiving this grant is a huge savings to the general fund and the citizens of Fort Smith,โ Chief Boyd Waters said.
Waters said one air pack costs are $12,000, and each one of the department’s will need to be replaced within the next few years.
“Not only will this grant save the City of Fort Smith money, but it will also keep the fire department equipped with the most up-to-date gear, which will help keep everyone safer,” he said.
