Lower Bucks Today

LANGHORNE, PA – Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) announced today that he has secured $130,727.27 in federal funding for the Bensalem Township Fire Rescue Department through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

Since 2001, the AFG Program has awarded approximately $8.4 billion in grant funding to provide resources that equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience.

This FY23 grant will enable Bensalem Township Fire Rescue Department to upgrade and modernize their aging Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). SCBAs are critical gear that ensures firefighters remain safe in hazardous conditions by providing breathable air in smoke-filled and toxic environments. The new SCBA units feature advanced technology and enhanced safety features not present in the department's current equipment. The grant funds will facilitate the acquisition of 14 SCBA harnesses, 28 air bottles, 14 facepieces, and a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) pack.

“The funding awarded by FEMA to Bensalem Fire Rescue will keep our firefighters safe and allow them to provide valuable services to our community. We thank Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and his staff for their efforts to secure this much-needed funding," said William McVey, Bensalem Township Public Safety Director.

“We are incredibly thankful to be awarded this grant which will allow us to replace our aging SCBA with the latest version of NFPA compliant SCBA. This equipment is crucial to the safety of our firefighters when responding to critical incidents. We greatly appreciate the continued support from Congressman Fitzpatrick and his staff in helping us obtain this funding,” said Battalion Fire Chief Robert Sponheimer, Bensalem Township Fire Rescue.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and a certified EMT, it has been one of my missions in Congress to ensure our hero firefighters have the resources and support they need to protect our community with the utmost safety and effectiveness. The Bensalem Township Fire Rescue’s dedication to safeguarding our community is truly remarkable, and it is unacceptable for them to be without the crucial and lifesaving gear they need while putting their lives on the line. Securing this vital funding represents not just an investment in equipment but an investment in the safety of our courageous firefighters and the resilience of our entire community. I am proud to fight for these remarkable men and women and look forward to continuing working alongside them,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1).

Bensalem Township is home to over 60,000 residents with an estimated quarter-million people during business hours as it is Bucks County's largest municipality. Established in 2010, Bensalem Township Fire Rescue works closely with six volunteer fire departments throughout the township. Their mission includes protecting citizens from fire risks through aggressive fire investigations, suppression efforts, code enforcement, prevention education while actively participating within their community.