Swampscott will receive nearly $19,000 in state grant funding for safety and communication equipment.
The town is one of more than 300 fire departments awarded funding through Gov. Maura Healey’s administration, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, and the Department of Fire Services. Swampscott will receive $18,850.
“Our firefighters deserve to go to work every day with equipment that keeps them protected and is compliant with necessary safety standards,” said State Sen. Brendan Crighton (D-Third Essex). With the funding dispersed through this grant, our fire departments have the flexibility to make upgrades and purchase equipment that will go a long way in keeping the men and women of our fire service safe.”
The funding amount awarded to each fire department is based on the size of the population they serve. The grant program looks to increase firefighter safety by providing fire departments with the resources to comply with the National Fire Protection Association and Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards, according to the press release.
Swampscott’s neighboring towns and cities are also receiving grants:
- Lynn – $49,999
- Lynnfield – $19,000
- Marblehead – $17,230
- Nahant – $12,499
- Saugus – $12,972
Swampscott Fire Chief Graham Archer had pitched projects and upgrades to the Capital Improvement Committee in January, including the installation of electric vehicle chargers at the fire station, which will cost about $15,000.
An electric Ford F-150, estimated at $92,275, is also being requested to join the fire department’s fleet. Archer said the truck would take over the role that a 2016 Ford Expedition is serving.
The 2016 Ford Expedition would then take over as “Car 22” for the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe currently in use. Archer said he isn’t sure if the Tahoe will even be able to make it to this summer due to being “well past the end of its service life.”
“This funding is a meaningful investment in the safety of our firefighters and the communities they serve,” said State Rep. Jennifer Armini (D-Essex). “Our fire departments rely on up-to-date equipment to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
