For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Newbury Fire Department Receives Grant to Update Communications System

NEWBURY — Fire Chief Nathan Walker is pleased to announce that the Newbury Fire Department received a $157,189 Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

This money will be used to purchase new communications equipment for use in the station and by firefighters in the field. The department will replace mobile devices in the apparatus and introduce dual mobile radios in command vehicles for better communication at emergency scenes. In addition, firefighters will get portable radios with mayday capabilities, which will increase their safety while on scene.

“I am incredibly pleased that the Newbury Fire Department has been awarded this extremely beneficial grant to better our communications, the backbone of fire safety and efficiency,” Chief Walker said. “Between Plum Island, Byfield, and Newbury, the Fire Department covers over 26 miles of land, making this grant to improve our communications even more vital.”

The goal of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant is to meet the needs of fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. Since 2001, the grants have helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

“Our firefighters play an integral role in keeping our communities safe,” Congressman Seth Moulton said. “They deserve top-quality equipment to do their jobs, and this federal grant will enable Chief Walker and the Newbury Fire Department to make critical updates to their communications equipment. I’m grateful to the Department of Homeland Security for recognizing the need to invest in our local fire departments.”

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