Fireman’s Fund Grants $300,000 to Fire Departments

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co. announced it is awarding fire departments located across the country with a $300,000 grant package designed to help make communities safer.

In all, 20 fire departments will be receiving a grant, ranging in size from $3,600 to nearly $44,000. From thermal imaging cameras and turnouts to extrication gear and community education tools, the variety of equipment funded through these grants is as diverse as the fire departments selected for funding, the company said.

Thirty-four departments across the country were originally nominated for grants by local Fireman’s Fund employees. A group of Chicago-based employees and independent agents then chose the 20 grant winners during a day-long selection process. Two members of the Chicago Fire Department served as technical advisers.

“As a company, we believe it is important to raise awareness of the needs of local fire departments,” said Mike LaRocco, president and CEO of Fireman’s Fund. “Supporting the fire service means rescuers will be better protected and our communities will be safer. That’s our ultimate goal with this program – saving lives.”

The grant package is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co. The initiative is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments. Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to more than 1,500 different departments totaling more than $26 million.