Warwick Fire Department receives $243,182 grant for new air packs

WARWICK — The Warwick Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded a $243,182 federal grant will be used to purchase new air packs, a term for self-contained breathing apparatus, for all its volunteer firefighters.
The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. According to the agency's web site, the funding is for critically needed resources to equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operations efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience.
Air packs are often critical to the safety and effectiveness of firefighters.
"An enormous amount of work goes into researching and applying for grants," said Frank Corkum, the Warwick Fire District chairman. "The Warwick Fire District is always looking for opportunities to enhance our capabilities while remaining cost efficient for our taxpayers. This grant will enable us to update our breathing apparatus and help to keep our firefighters safe."
Last year, the Warwick Volunteer Fire Department, which has been protecting the community since 1869, responded to more than 500 calls.
"The town is grateful that our volunteer firefighters are receiving this vital equipment to ensure their safety as they ensure ours," said Supervisor Michael Sweeton. "We are blessed to have strong volunteer firefighters and EMS to keep our town safe."
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter can stop at one of four companies at three firehouses to join up any night or visit Facebook at Warwick NY Fire Department.
- Roger Gavan