State fire marshal announces small-equipment grants for Lincoln and Middletown fire depts.

[April 23, 2010]  SPRINGFIELD -- Acting Illinois State Fire Marshal Larry Matkaitis announced Thursday that grants totaling nearly $2 million have been awarded to fire agencies in more than 110 Illinois communities for the purchase of fire safety items, including personal protective equipment, known as PPE, and self-contained breathing apparatus, or SCBA.

"Having the right safety equipment is essential for first responders," Matkaitis said. "It is especially important that local fire departments continually strive to acquire the latest equipment to fight fires and save lives. With shrinking municipal budgets, the Small Equipment Grant program has evolved into a critical resource to help meet basic equipment needs."

Fire departments maintained by local units of government within a geographical area were eligible for program grants of up to $26,000 to purchase the most essential equipment, which includes PPE and SCBA. In addition, departments receiving grants were required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for at least the past two years.

This year, 112 Illinois communities shared $1,994,146.96 in grant funding. The funding will help local fire services purchase small equipment for their departments.

Grants awarded in Logan County:

• Lincoln Fire Department, $4,360

• Middletown Fire Protection District, $13,120

(Complete list of grants)

[Text from file from the Office of the State Fire Marshal]