Congressman Dan Lipinski (IL-3) has announced that the Lockport Township Fire Protection District has been awarded an over $329 thousand grant through the Department of Homeland Security for new protective breathing apparatuses.

“Federal funding is needed to meet the increased demands being placed on our nation's first responders,” said Rep. Lipinski.  “This grant will allow the Lockport Township Fire Protection District to purchase much needed new equipment.  In doing so, they will be able to continue to build upon their already impressive record of service.”

“Our current breathing apparatus units are 15 plus years old and at the end of their service life,” stated Lockport Township Fire Protection District Chief Paul Hertzmann.  “There have been dramatic improvements to this product over the last few years and these new units will provide our firefighters with the latest innovations to keep them safe during emergency events.”      

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program provides needed federal funds to fire departments and emergency medical service organizations in order to improve the response capabilities of our nation's first responders and the safety of our communities.