The Westport Fire Department is the recipient of a nearly $95,000 federal grant to fund firefighters’ swiftwater rescue training. The $94,952 grant was awarded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. According to Westport Fire Chief Nicholas Marsan, the program is a “highly competitive national initiative” that helps strengthen fire departments’ emergency response capabilities nationwide.
The program will help Westport firefighters gain critical skills for rescues in flooding and coastal incidents, along with other water emergencies, through “hands-on, scenario-based instruction in moving water environments,” Marsan said. โOur firefighters are often called to respond to emergencies during severe weather and flooding events in our community,โ Marsan said. โThis funding provides us with the resources to receive advanced training that will keep both our residents and our first responders safe during rescue operations.โ
Highlighting the proximity of Westport to rivers, streams and Long Island Sound, Marsan noted that the funding will ensure firefighters are ready to provide aid during town and regional emergencies. On Monday, the American Red Cross and the state Division of Emergency Services and Public Protection urged Connecticut residents to take precaution during peak hurricane season, especially following the deadly Naugatuck Valley floods in 2024 that killed two people and damaged several roads and homes.
Westport First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker said the funding will help ensure the fire department is “prepared with the highest level of readiness.” “Investing in our firefighters’ training is ultimately an investment in community safety,” Tooker said.
