By Donna M. Perry
Sun Journal

INDUSTRY, Maine — Old air packs and turnout gear will get replaced at Industry Fire and Rescue Department and East Dixfield Fire Co., thanks to federal grants.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday it has awarded $869,626 in grants to nine Maine fire departments. The money is provided through the "Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program," a news release from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, D-Maine, stated.

Industry is scheduled to receive $50,825 and Chief Joe Paradis was happy to learn the department would get the money for 10 new air packs for firefighters.

"This is excellent news," Paradis said.

He said he thought the department was in the running with its application after it was contacted last year but hadn't heard anything since.

They had previously received grant money to buy 16 sets of turnout gear, Paradis said.

Next on their list of things to seek federal funding for is a new pumper-tanker to replace a converted military truck now used, Paradis said.

The last new pumper the department bought was a 1988, Paradis said. In East Dixfield, Chief Randy Hall said he is hoping to buy 15 new sets of turnout gear for the 15 firefighters in the company with the $16,435 they will receive.

The East Dixfield Fire Co. is part of the Dixfield Fire Department but is supported by both Dixfield and Wilton tax dollars to cover sections of both towns.

"We were at the point we needed turnout gear," Hall said. The gear is considered personal protection equipment.

The departments will receive funding through the Operations and Firefighting Safety Program, which consists of training, equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to the departments facilities.

"The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is an extremely critical source of funds for Maine's fire and rescue personnel," Collins said in a prepared statement. "This grant will help provide our critical first responders with the equipment and training that they need to better serve their communities."

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