Hants, Cumberland, Colchester Fire Departments, Emergency Responders Receive Funding

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

John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, announced funding for seven projects in Hants, Cumberland and Colchester counties today, Sept. 17.

"The province is pleased to help fire departments and first responders buy equipment, which is used to protect our communities and make life better for Nova Scotia families," said Mr. MacDonell. "We want to ensure our emergency responders have the tools needed to carry out their duties safely and effectively."

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

Projects include essential equipment used directly in the response to a fire or emergency such as Jaws of Life, self-contained breathing apparatuses, ice rescue equipment, communication equipment, thermal imaging cameras, and pumps, hoses, and nozzles.

"These provincial funds will help community, volunteer fire departments such as ours purchase key equipment, such as breathing apparatus, which ensures our members have protective gear when responding to fires and other emergencies," said, Ronnie Densmore, fire chief, Noel and District Volunteer Fire Department.

A list of projects receiving funding through the Emergency Services Provider Fund can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/espf/ .