FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2007

Sen. Regola Urges Fire Departments/EMS to Seek Grants

Volunteer companies have until October 11th to apply for funds

State Senator Bob Regola is urging local volunteer fire departments and emergency medical service (EMS) squads to apply for $50 million in grants from the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program.  Senator Regola was the prime sponsor of the Senate version of the legislation authorizing the grant program.

"Our volunteer fire fighters and emergency medical services personnel share a true dedication to their calling.  It takes a brave soul to battle a fire or tend to those injured in an automobile accident.  It is truly a shame that these men and women work out of substandard stations or have to use outdated equipment," Sen. Regola said.  "That's why the firefighter/EMS grant program is so important to our communities.  This program is intended to help volunteer emergency responders purchase new equipment, upgrade their skills and improve their stations."

The online application for the grants is available August 28th through October 11th at www.osfc.state.pa.us.  This year, the Office of the State Fire Commissioner will administer two fiscal years of grants on one application.  That means the maximum grant amounts -- $30,000 for fire departments and $20,000 for ambulance services -- are double the usual amounts.  Grants may be used for construction or renovation of a fire company facility, purchase or repair of firefighting or rescue equipment, training or debt reduction.

Contact:  Nate Silcox (717) 787-6063