WASHINGTON, D.C.  -  Calhoun County law enforcement should soon have new cutting edge devices to help fight fires and better protect local citizens, Congressman Mike Rogers said today.

Rogers said three devices, all of which help law enforcement personnel in emergency situations, would be awarded. The first, known as Thermovision Scout ZX, will allow first responders to collect video day or night and in areas where manned surveillance could be unsafe or impractical. The equipment is worth $12,670.

Secondly, the AN/PVS-7B Style Single Tube Night Vision Goggle will can help facilitate long range observation at night. It is worth $4,564.98. Thirdly, a device knows as an AMKUS (gasoline powered), will assist first responders in cutting into automobiles and other vehicles in emergency situations. The equipment is worth $17,167. 

“These high tech tools should be helpful to local fire and rescue teams,” Rogers said. “I am delighted the federal government has chosen to make these investments locally, and hope these devices will help support the ongoing efforts of Calhoun County law enforcement.”

Rogers said the departments awarded include: Jacksonville University Police Department, which will receive the Thermovision Scout ZX; Jacksonville Police Department, which will receive the AN/PVS-7B Style Single Tube Night Vision Goggle; and the Piedmont Emergency Rescue Squad, which will receive the AMKUS.

Rogers is Ranking Member of the Homeland Security subcommittee on Management, Investigation and Oversight. Funding for the program is administered under the FY06 Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), which included an expanded selection of equipment and is overseen by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

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