The Maine Fire Service Institute (MFSI) has been awarded a federal grant to purchase new fire training equipment that will allow it to enhance its training capabilities.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency notified MFSI this month that it has been approved for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) of $92,980 for equipment used in hazardous materials, forcible-entry and water pump operation training.
“This grant allows us to expand the training opportunities we offer local fire departments across the state of Maine,” said Jim Graves, director of MFSI. “We are always working hard to procure the newest training equipment available to help in the advancement of Maine firefighters.”
The Maine Fire Service Institute is a department of Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) and provides training and education services to Maine’s fire agencies and firefighters. It is located on SMCC’s Midcoast Campus in Brunswick.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant will be used to purchase:
A mobile fire pump trailer for hands-on training on fire apparatus pumps, and hose and nozzle flows, which would more efficiently utilize hydrants and other water supply sources.
Two forcible-entry apparatuses used to train firefighters in gaining entry through doors.
Hazardous materials equipment, including hazmat boots and gas detection meters.
Graves expects to have the forcible-entry and hazardous materials equipment by the end of the year. The trailer will be custom-built to MFSI specifications and should be delivered by the end of next spring.
For more information about the Maine Fire Service Institute, please visit mfsi.me.edu.