Shuster joined members of the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department who received a grant in the amount of $92,041for thermal imagery equipment and rescue tools. 

“The announcement of this grant is great news for the people served by the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department,” Shuster said. “The addition of a thermal imaging camera will allow the department to rescue people faster and safer than ever before, and the new rescue equipment will enable the firefighters to respond to emergencies with cutting edge tools to save lives.” 

“Grants like the one announced today are a perfect example of how taxpayer dollars should be spent,” Shuster said.  “They are competitive, need based and reviewed by fellow fire fighters.  I am encouraged that so many of our local fire companies are taking advantage of this important grant program.”    

“The Smithfield Volunteer Fire Department applied for grant money to replace outdated fire gear that is fifteen years old,” said Fire Chief Keith Dillow.  “As a volunteer fire department our membership roster does change throughout time and we need to outfit our volunteers with fire gear that fits properly and has improved in safety standards.” 

“The thermal camera is a great addition to our department,” Dillow continued.  “Two years ago, we responded to a local area church that was struck by lightning.  With smoke showing from the roof of the church, we had to make three entry holes in the roof to find the origin of the fire.  If we would have had a camera at this time, we could have prevented more damage to the structure.” 

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP) awards one-year grants directly to fire departments to support the nation's firefighters and the services they deliver. The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness (SLGCP) administers the program, in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.