Fire Department Receives Nearly Half Million in Grants Over Past Year

The St. Clair Shores Fire Department has been awarded a $251,213 grant from Federal Emergency Management Agency to replace outdated defibrillator/monitors and exhaust equipment in the city's three fire stations.

The announcement by U.S. Sens. Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow Wednesday brings the total amount of Assistance to Firefighters Grant the department has received to nearly $500,000 in just over a year.

"It is pretty outstanding," said Fire Chief George Morehouse about the three grants the department has received since January 2012..

The most recent grant the department received, which requires a 20 percent match from the city and approval by City Council, would allow the city to purchase seven new LifePak defibrillators. Additionally, the department would replace the current system in all three station which captures and removes exhaust in the vehicle bays.

"Unfortunately everything we use in the fire service has a life expectancy," siad Morehouse, of the items which are at risk of becoming obsolete.

The chief was informed by the company that services the defibrillators that they would no longer be able service the devices once they run out of spare parts. The department was planning to start the replacement process, but may use the budgeted funds instead for the match.

The exhaust system also has outlived its life expectancy, and will be replaced.

"It's a win-win for the city," Morehouse said. "Inevitably we would have to get them. Now we get them all together and have the best equipment once again."

In April 2012 the department received a grant for $112,805 to purchase new SCBA Paks, and in January 2012, FEMA awarded a $115,970 grant for a wellness and fitness grant.