FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2012
The Guam Fire Department’s fleet of rescue vehicles is expanding to serve the community with a $1.12 million grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior. A new ladder-truck, two medium duty-rescue vehicles and a rescue boat will significantly enhance the fire department’s ability to respond to emergencies and save lives.
“Public safety is a top priority of this government and part of this priority is making sure that our emergency response personnel have the equipment and resources they need at all times,” Acting Governor Tenorio said. “There’s still a lot of work to do, but I’m proud of the collaborative effort being made between the fire department, the administration, local agencies and our federal partners to get more emergency vehicles into the GFD inventory. This speaks to our ability to work with one another during these challenging times.”
This is a significant grant approval, which has been in the works since 2009, that allows GFD to finally purchase a vehicle that increases emergency response capabilities in taller buildings. In addition, the department’s new rescue boat will augment support for search and rescue operations in surrounding waters.
“Through the close relationship between the Guam State Clearinghouse and GFD we’re finally seeing the completion of a critical project that will greatly improve our fire personnel’s ability to save lives. The vehicles procured by this grant, in addition to the three new ambulances already en route, gives the department the resources it needs to carry out its mission as an “all-hazards“ emergency service agency,” Fire Chief Joey San Nicolas said.
Contact Natalie Quinata at 475-9309 or 488-6013 for more information.
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