Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady (R-The Woodlands) praised the Department of Homeland Security today for their continuing effort to ensure funding is directed to areas with greater security needs, also known as High Threat High Risk Areas.  Houston will be the recipient of a $19,955,485 grant to enhance the overall security and preparedness level to prevent, respond, and recover from an act of terrorism.

 

"In the War on Terrorism, first responders are the front lines of defense," said Brady, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.  "First responders are the backbone of our communities.  We post their names and number on our refrigerators because we rely on them to help us in an emergency."

 

The City of Houston ranks #7 nationally in urban areas that are considered a high threat/high risk for terrorist attack.  This funding will help prepare Urban Search and Rescue teams for deployment, train Emergency Response and Support Teams for quick reaction, and provide assistance to purchase specialized equipment to enhance capabilities to prevent and respond to incidents of terrorism.  The responsibility of securing the homeland lies with state and local government, utilizing an army of first responders.

 

"First responders are the brave men and women who live with us in our communities.  They are ready to risk their own lives to save ours, and are the front lines of defense against terrorist acts.  This funding will help prevent terrorism at home and support our regional response effort in the event of an attack," Brady said.

 

For more information, please visit http://www.dhs.gov.