Regional Water Authority Awards Fire Department $1K Grant For New Multi-Gas Meter

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — A $1,000 grant award by the Regional Water Authority to the North Branford Fire Department will go toward the purchase of new multi-gas meter.

The meter is a "critical handheld device for fire departments."

The real-time data gas meter devices allow firefighters to detect multiple hazardous gases in fire scenes, hazmat incidents, or confined spaces.

Noting the department "appreciates RWA's support," this week Nicoletta Blevins from the Water Authority presented a First Responder Grant check to NBFD Assistant Chiefs Robert Colangelo and Anthony P. Esposito Jr.

The RWA created the Emergency Responder Grant Program in 2024 wherein grants of up to $2,000 a year to organizations that provide volunteer and professional emergency services within the utility's territory.

"The courageous men and women who serve in our local fire departments and emergency response agencies are always there when we need them," said Sunder (Sunny) Lakshminarayanan, the RWA’s interim president and CEO, in September. "We are thankful for this opportunity to demonstrate our gratitude and support."

In 2024, the RWA distributed grants totaling more than $15,000 to eight local fire and emergency agencies, helping them pay for protective gear, thermal imaging equipment, training materials and other needs.