Dodson Branch Volunteer Fire Department Receives Federal Grant

October 4, 2007, COOKEVILLE – The Dodson Branch Volunteer Fire Department will receive a $22,674 U.S. Department of Homeland Security operations and safety grant, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon announced.

“Many communities struggle to maintain EMS and firefighting services,” said Gordon, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “Even though demands on EMS providers and firefighters have increased tremendously over the years, the resources they depend on to provide their life-saving services have not.

“That’s why Congress initiated the Assistance to Firefighters Program, which is similar to the highly successful COPS program that put more than 100,000 new police officers on the nation’s streets.”

Firefighter Heather Bean said the Dodson Branch Fire Department will use the funds to purchase new equipment such as hoses, deck guns and water nozzles.

“The department’s main goal is to enhance the firefighter’s ability. It is very hard to get water supplies to rural communities,” said Bean. “With only donations and fundraisers, federal grants, such as this one, are very important to purchase necessary equipment to protect our community.”