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November 20, 2008

Volunteer fire depts. receive grants

By Tiffany Green

STAFF WRITER

Congressman Robert Aderholt announced the Baileyton and Berlin Volunteer Fire Departments have been awarded a total of $36,032 in grants.

The money comes from the Assistance to Firefighters Program. The program awards grant money directly to fire departments and emergency medical service organizations.

“We got funded for new radios,” said Joe Golden, Baileyton fire chief. “Right now the radios we have are over 20 years old. In a couple of years we have to switch to narrow band. Those will help us get a jump start on future requirements.”

Baileyton was awarded $16,500 and Berlin $19,532 in grant money.

“Grants are very important to volunteer to fire departments. Without them we wouldn’t get the things we need,” said Zack McGee, volunteer for the Baileyton fire department.

He said some of the most important needs are updating equipment to meet current standards to better serve the community. He said the Baileyton department recently used grant money to purchase a new pump truck.

Cullman County Economic Development’s Buchanan Jackson helped write the grants for the fire departments.

“Areas of need, like replacing and updating old radios is where the money will be used,” Jackson said. “The departments will now be able to communicate better between themselves and other departments.”

In regards to the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department, Jackson said the money will help with training.

“They will now be able to train more volunteers so they will be able to respond to all calls and help with other departments,” Jackson said.

“Our local fire departments do a tremendous job protecting our communities with limited resources,” Aderholt said. “I’m committed to doing everything within my power to see that they receive additional funding so that they can do their job efficiently and safely. I’m pleased to be able to support Baileyton and Berlin Volunteer Fire Departments and the important work they’re doing.”

The Baileyton and Berlin Volunteer Fire Departments were granted funding as part of the operations and safety program. They can use the money for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness and modifications to the fire stations and facilities.

The United States Congress appropriated approximately $500 million in direct assistance to fire departments and EMS organizations across the country.



‰ Tiffany Green can be reached by e-mail at tgreen@cullmantimes.com or by telephone at 734-2131, ext. 221.

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