Melrose Gets $19K For Firefighting Equipment Through State Grant

MELROSE, MA — Melrose firefighters will soon have new equipment at their disposal thanks to a state grant announced last week.

Worth $19,000, money for Melrose comes as part of a larger $5 million package going to fire departments via the Department of Fire Services.

“We ask so much of our firefighters, and no matter how dangerous or difficult the situation, they always do whatever it takes to help,” Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. “This program is an opportunity to make sure they are properly protected every time they answer a call for help.”

All told, 309 fire departments are getting money through this year’s Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program, according to the Department of Fire Services’ announcement on Thursday of last week.

The program aims to improve firefighter safety by bettering access to needed equipment ranging from boots and coats to cold water immersion suits, thermal imaging cameras and combustible/hazardous gas detectors.

Back for the 2023 fiscal year, the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program draws its funding from a five-year $25 million bond bill filed with the goal of supporting firefighter safety and health.

Shrewsbury Fire Chief and Fire Chiefs’ Association President James Vuona touted the grant program last week, saying departments are seeing its impact in the field.

“Firefighters are responding to calls with the proper protective gear and tools, which makes their jobs much safer,” Vuona said. “The firefighters of Massachusetts and their families are grateful for this investment in their health and safety.”

Locally, Melrose State Rep. Kate Lipper-Garabedian joined in the celebration on Tuesday, saying she was “thrilled” to share word of this grant.

Melrose has received money through the Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant program before, most recently getting $18,901.80 in the last round of grant funding in January of this year.