News release

Fire Departments, Emergency Responders Receive Equipment Funding

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

The province is helping more than 50 fire departments and emergency response organizations keep Nova Scotians and their homes safe with new equipment bought through the Emergency Services Provider Fund.

Jim Morton, MLA Kings North, on behalf of John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, announced funding for seven projects in Annapolis, Digby, and Yarmouth counties today, Sept. 14.

"This funding assists fire departments and first responders purchase necessary equipment to help them do their job protecting communities throughout the province," said Mr. Morton. "We want to make sure they can carry out their duties safely and effectively."

The Emergency Services Provider Fund is a $500,000, application-based program that provides up to 50 per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $20,000 for approved projects.

Projects include the purchase of essential equipment such as jaws of life, self-contained breathing apparatuses, ice rescue equipment, communication equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and pumps, hoses, and nozzles.

"We are pleased to have received funding this year to help us purchase equipment, such as new fire hoses, that our members use to carry out their duties for the citizens of Bear River and surrounding areas," said Darryl Jelfs, fire chief, Bear River Volunteer Fire Department.

A list of funded projects can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/espf/.