FEMA Gives East Lansing Funding for Firefighting Equipment

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $220,796 to the East Lansing Fire Department (ELFD) for the purchase of firefighting breathing apparatus. The news was announced by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, who represent Michigan.

Providing comment to ELi by way of the City’s Communication Coordinator, ELFD Chief Randy Talifarro expressed gratitude for the funds.

“The grant will allow us to purchase breathing apparatus that is up to modern codes and standards. This will help us to better prepare for the dangerous emergency conditions our employees at times must respond to,” he said. “The staff appreciates the support of our internal leadership and political leaders that helped to secure this revenue. Their constant hard work lobbying for our needs is deeply appreciated. ELFD employees remain committed to maintaining the high level of service that our residents deserve and have come to expect.”

The funds will go to the purchase of 35 self-contained breathing apparatus air packs, 70 air bottles, and 48 integrated digital face masks. This equipment enables firefighters greater protection when dealing with fires, to reduce their exposure to toxic substances and to allow them to conduct rescues in dangerous conditions.

"Our firefighters in East Lansing put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes and communities,” Stabenow was quoted as saying in the Senators’ joint press release. “These new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

“Firefighters and first responders work tirelessly to ensure our communities are safe places to work, go to school and raise a family,” said Peters, in the same release. “This funding will help ensure the East Lansing Fire Department will be better equipped to do their jobs efficiently and safely when emergencies arise.”

The program through which these funds have been obtained is called the Assistance to Firefighters Grants. Applications can be made to fund equipment and training.