Last January, BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie and Captain Pat O’hern began the application process for a grant from FEMA Assistance to Firefighters. It was announced Monday that the BUG Fire Department has now been awarded this grant in the amount of almost $199.000. This grant will be used to replace all the department’s self-contained breathing apparatus commonly known as “air packs”. The department’s air packs being used today are 20 years old and no longer compliant with current safety standards. Scheduled to arrive at both fire stations sometime in early 2022, these air packs will include air bottles and custom-fit face masks for individual firefighters. Fire Chief Vandertie explains…..
Since 2003, the BUG Fire Department has completed many fundraisers, worked with community partners and businesses raising money, and obtained many equipment donations through these relationships. In addition to the many grants applied for and awarded, the combined efforts have resulted in over $736,000 in funds and equipment. This has allowed the department’s operating budget to be one of the lowest in the area while still maintaining a high level of service. Fire Chief Vandertie says this is a win for the community…..
Fire Chief Vandertie extends his thanks to the community for their ongoing support and to the firefighters who continue to proudly serve the towns of Brussels, Union, and Gardner.
