SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Three local fire and emergency service departments were awarded over $350,000 in federal funding from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  The Copake Fire District in Columbia County was awarded $33,806; the Village of Schaghticoke Fire Department in Rensselaer County was awarded $261,250; and the Saratoga Emergency Medical Services was awarded $58,785.

The Assistance to Firefighters Program is a competitive grant program administered by the Department of Homeland Security.  Funds can be used for the purchase of new vehicles, training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.              

The 2009 application period for the Assistance to Firefighters Program will begin in the early spring of 2009.