Senator Kissel Excited with Federal Grant for Somers Fire Department

State Senator John A. Kissel is excited that the Somers Fire Department has received a federal fire safety grant of $100,985. Congressman Rob Simmons (R-2 nd District) presented the funds at a ceremony attended by Senator Kissel held at the Somers Fire Department on Tuesday afternoon. The funds were awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

“Our communities’ firefighters are true heroes who help protect our citizens from danger everyday. They deserve the most up to date and effective equipment we can provide them so it is wonderful news that Somers received this significant grant,” said Senator Kissel. “I would also like to express my thanks to Congressman Simmons for his efforts in securing this funding for our brave local firefighters.”

Somers Fire Department Deputy Chief Frank Falcone said that the funding will be used to purchase a variety of new equipment, including 18 new Self Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA’s) for the firefighters, which are lighter and provide longer air time. A new Rapid Intervention Kit (RIT) as well as a new Fit Testing System (FIT) will also be acquired thanks to the new funding.

Senator Kissel is serving his seventh term representing the seventh district communities of East Granby, Enfield, Granby, Somers, Suffield, Windsor, and Windsor Locks.