Quinn announces local fire safety investments

SPRINGFIELD – Governor Pat Quinn and Illinois State Fire Marshal Larry Matkaitis this week state purchase safety equipment, protective clothing, breathing apparatus and other tools for firefighters.

The investments are supported by a small percentage of the sales of all fire insurance sold in Illinois.

The Small Equipment Grant Program provides funds directly to Illinois fire departments, fire protection districts or township fire departments to purchase needed life saving and operational equipment. These departments are eligible for grants up to $26,000.

The Fire Marshal’s Office received 328 applications requesting more than $6.9 million in funding this year. The Small Equipment Grant committee, comprised of members of the fire service, examined the applications in a blind review and recommended the $945,845 in available grant money to be awarded to 50 of the fire departments who submitted applications.

Local fire departments receiving funds included:

– Carlinville, $11,883

– Godfrey Fire Protection District, $578

– Maryville, $25,995

– Olive Fire Protection District, $24,753

– Alhambra, $14,280

– Mascoutah, $23,900

– Hollywood Heights, $26,000