The city of Cortland Fire Department announced recently that it has received an Assistance to Firefighters Grant award of $50,000, the department said in a press release.
This award will allow the department to replace all of the supply hoses. This hose is a large diameter hose (LDH) used to bring water from the fire hydrants to the fire apparatus or go directly from apparatus to apparatus. Currently, the city’s water infrastructure places hydrants roughly every 300 feet. However, firefighters will often use more than one hydrant and try to obtain a backup hydrant of a separate water main, leading to longer distances between the apparatus and the hydrant.
Fire hoses must be tested annually to a prescribed pressure based on their design and usage. The department loses one to five lengths of hose a year due to failure. Our oldest piece of hose, which is being replaced, was purchased in 1989.
With financial support, the department will be able to invest in supply/attack LDH that can withstand twice the pressure of the current ones. This significant upgrade not only provides firefighters with a tactical advantage but also significantly enhances their safety during future operations.
The hose being replaced will not go to waste. In a strategic move, it will be sold at aution. The proceeds from this sale will help offset the city’s five percent match of $2,500, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to responsible financial management and the efficient use of resources.
This significant purchase was made possible through the collaborative efforts of TenKate Grant Service, FEMA, AFG Grant, and our local, state, and federal government officials. Their unwavering support and commitment have been instrumental in securing this grant and improving our firefighting capabilities. We are deeply grateful for their contributions.
