Washington, D.C.  -  Several Talladega County First Responders should soon have new cutting edge devices to help fight fires and better protect local citizens, Congressman Mike Rogers said today.

Known as thermal imagers, Rogers said the devices will help local firemen see people trapped in smoke – filled environments. The equipment was awarded by the Department of Homeland Security and is worth approximately $9,700 each.  The lifting tools include gas powered spreaders, cutters, and RAM tools and will assist first responders with heavy lifting during emergency situations.  This equipment is worth $17,914.

“These high tech tools should help local fire and rescue teams save lives,” Rogers said. “I am delighted the federal government has chosen to make these investments in Talladega County, and hope these devices will bring even greater support for our local responders.”

Rogers said Winterboro Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Inc., Waldo Volunteer Fire Department, Sycamore Volunteer Fire Department, and Coosa Valley Rescue Squad all received a thermal imager.  Stewartville Volunteer Fire Department and Coleta Valley Volunteer Fire Department received the lifting tools.

Rogers is Chairman of the Homeland Security subcommittee on Management, Integration and Oversight and said these types of programs are critical for helping local communities prepare for and respond to emergencies. “These folks are our first line of defense locally, and I will continue to do whatever I can to support these types of initiatives,” he said.

Funding for the program is administered under the FY05 Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), Phase II, which included an expanded selection of equipment and is overseen by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

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