Province Invests in Emergency Services Provider Equipment

Government is investing $510,323 under the Emergency Services Provider Fund to help first responders purchase new equipment.

Municipal Affairs Minister Mark Furey announced funding for 47 emergency services providers in the province today, Aug. 29.

"The province is providing support to emergency service providers so they are able to help Nova Scotians in emergency situations." said Mr. Furey. "The funding will help ensure that first responders are protected and have the equipment they need to do their jobs as safely possible."

The fund was developed to assist first responders with the purchase of equipment used directly in response to a fire or emergency situations. Items eligible for funding under this program include personal protection equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus, water supply, suppression, communications, rescue and thermal imaging equipment, and hazardous materials (HAZMAT) suits.

Fire departments, ground search and rescue organizations, HAZMAT organizations and other first responder organizations are able to receive up to 50 per cent of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $20,000. Organizations can only receive funding once every three years.

"On behalf of Tri-District Fire Rescue we are pleased to be receiving funding from the Emergency Services Provider Fund," said Fire Chief Paul Hayes. "This program is very important to our department and to the fire service in Nova Scotia in general.

"The program helps fire departments obtain equipment that is vital in the everyday operations of firefighting."

Tri-District Fire Rescue, in Newcombville, Lunenburg Co., is receiving $16,204 for the purchase of new communications equipment.

For a complete list of recipients go to http://www.novascotia.ca/dma/funding/community/emergency-services-provider-fund.asp .