Jay Inslee: Washington's 1st Congressional District
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$206,855 Grant for North Kitsap Fire and Rescue
29 October 2004
U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee announced today that North Kitsap Fire and Rescue will receive a federal grant of $206,855 to replace its 10-year old self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) system with 42 complete new SCBA units – enough units to allow each firefighter to have his or her own face piece. As part of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, this funding will allow North Kitsap Fire and Rescue to purchase new equipment that will help protect firefighters and enhance their effectiveness when responding to local emergencies. In particular, the new SCBA units funded by the grant will be an upgrade to a high pressure system from the existing low pressure units. The grant will also enable North Kitsap Fire and Rescue to purchase two Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) packs, which can provide a rescue air supply when responding to an emergency.
"This grant is great news for the brave men and women at North Kitsap Fire and Rescue who protect our community," said Inslee. "We must provide these firefighters with the resources they need to effectively and safely respond to local emergencies. I am glad that the federal government recognizes the committed work of North Kitsap Fire and Rescue, and the great job they do in safeguarding our families and our homes."
"We’re very grateful for the funds that are made available through this grant process because it allows us to upgrade our self contained breathing masks," said North Kitsap Fire and Rescue Chief Paul Nichol.
Inslee supported legislation in the past Congress that authorized FEMA and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) to make grants directly to local fire departments. North Kitsap Fire and Rescue serves about a 47 square mile area, including the communities of Kingston, Suquamish, Hansville, Indianola and Miller Bay.
North Kitsap Fire and Rescue Firefighters Todd Bailey (middle) and Garrett Owens (far right) look on as Joe Petersen tries out the new breathing apparatus this past October. Photo courtesty of Michele Laboda, North Kitsap Fire and Rescue.