City awarded $59,000 federal grant for updated firefighting equipment
Funds will be used to purchase a new high-pressure compressor
–Rep. Lois Capps (D-Santa Barbara) announced that the Paso Robles Department of Emergency Services has received a $59,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The funds will be used to purchase a new high-pressure compressor, used to fill self-contained breathing apparatuses that provide breathable air to firefighters when they are in extremely hazardous conditions.
Such grants are awarded each year to selected fire departments, state fire training academies, and emergency medical service organizations across the country.
“I am pleased that the Paso Robles Fire Department will receive federal funds to help update this essential piece of equipment that supports local firefighters in their efforts to protect the public,” Capps said. “We must ensure that our local firefighters are properly equipped, especially as we face another potentially catastrophic fire season. As fire seasons continue to stretch longer and longer, we know how important these types of resources are for swift and effective fire containment, as well as the safety of our first responders. We owe nothing less to our brave men and women who continue to put their lives on the line and keep our communities safe.”
“The high-pressure compressor represents a critical replacement for our City,” Paso Robles Fire Chief Ken Johnson said. “The compressor now in use by the city was purchased over 22 years ago, and was designed to refill much lower pressure bottles than in use today. The compressor’s age and increased pressure use took its toll, but the department was unsuccessful over the last several years in replacing the unit through normal funding methods. The Assistance to Firefighter’s Grant program has been a tremendous help to us over the years in replacing several pieces of critical equipment.”
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