Cove-Area Fire Companies, EMS Receive State Grant

Cove-area fire companies have received nearly $73,000 from the state’s Fire Company and Emergency Services Grant Program.

The grants are awarded annually to volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services, and rescue squads through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. The grants can be used for equipment, training, debt reduction and construction or upgrades to facilities.

The Claysburg Volunteer Fire Company received $15,000. Chief Scotty Eicher said the money will be used to upgrade the lighting on the tanker. Eicher said the original lighting is halogen bulb, which puts a significant load on the alternator. Eicher said many of the scene lights are no longer working and are difficult to get replacement for parts.

Friendship Volunteer Fire Company also received $15,000. Chief James Musselman said the money will be used to help pay a low-interest state loan for a rescue truck.

“Every penny we can bring in helps us continue to provide our services,” Musselman said. “Between loans, utilities, fuel, maintenance costs, and equipment, we need all the help we can get and really appreciate this grant.”

Freedom Township received $13,826. Chief Ron Henry said it will be used for debt reduction.

“The costs associated with maintaining a fire company is large and any monies we can get to help defray those costs are appreciated,” Henry said.

Williamsburg Fire Chief Travis Prough said the $14,071 the fire company received will go toward debt reduction and new turnout gear.

Martinsburg Volunteer Fire Company received $15,000. Chief Randy Acker said the money will go toward the loan for the addition to the fire station.

Along with area fire services, the Hollidaysburg American Legion Ambulance Service (HALAS) was awarded a $10,000.

More than $31 million in grants were awarded to 2,336 applicants from fire and EMS services across the state.