Wamp Praises Help For Local Public Safety
March 28, 2007

Public safety organizations in Anderson, Hamilton, Jefferson and Rhea counties have qualified for competitive federal grants under the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program grants, Congressman Wamp said.

"Local and county public safety organizations are often the first help on the scene when an accident or other public safety event occurs," Congressman Wamp said. "From natural disasters to man-made tragedies, our nation's first responders are dedicated and selfless individuals who put their lives on the line to make us safer everyday and it is important we all help ensure they have the best equipment possible so they can do this most important job more effectively."

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security today announced the following grant awards:
* City of Oak Ridge Fire Department will receive $8,337 to purchase a thermal imager
* Hamilton County HazMat Team will receive $65,625 for a portable chemical identifier
* Dandridge Police Department will receive $7,400 for a sentinel surveillance system
* Dayton Police Department will receive $38,117 for a digital TACVest

The Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program allows smaller law enforcement and emergency responder agencies to purchase specialized equipment they might otherwise not be able to afford.