Westport Fire Department Receives FEMA Grant

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Fire Department has been awarded a $94,952 federal grant to train firefighters in swiftwater rescue techniques, town officials announced Thursday.

The funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, which provides money to fire departments nationwide to improve emergency response capabilities.

According to the department, the grant will pay for hands-on, scenario-based training in moving water conditions, preparing firefighters to conduct rescues during floods, coastal incidents and other water emergencies. Officials said the training is especially relevant given Westport’s location near rivers, streams and Long Island Sound.

"Our firefighters are often called to respond to emergencies during severe weather and flooding events in our community," said Fire Chief Nicholas Marsan in a statement. "This funding provides us with the resources to receive advanced training that will keep both our residents and our first responders safe during rescue operations."

Added First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, "We are grateful for this grant, which ensures our department is prepared with the highest level of readiness. Investing in our firefighters’ training is ultimately an investment in community safety."

Officials said the award comes as coastal communities in Connecticut experience more frequent severe weather and flooding. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, administered by FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, funds training and equipment to help first responders protect the public and themselves.