Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that Forks Fire District No. 3 has been awarded $16,020 in federal funding through the Department of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program.

“We are fortunate to have dedicated and trained volunteers always available to serve our community in an emergency,” said Congressman Higgins.  “These resources help to build upon the great team of first responders actively available to answer the call.”

SAFER grants are aimed at increasing the number of firefighters and enhancing their ability to ensure that their communities have adequate protection from fire and fire related hazards.  In the 2007 budget, Congress approved $115 million for the SAFER program which provides competitive grants to fire departments and statewide or local firefighter interest groups.  These awards are administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.

“This funding will help to further develop our marketing campaign to inform and educate the public about what we do and how to get involved,” said Forks Fire Chief Michael Hockwater.  “Through creating awareness we can successfully expand the ranks and further the mission of the department.” 

Established in 1911, Forks Fire Department is located at 3330 Broadway at Union Road and has a sub-station at the corner of Nagel and South Creek Drive in the Town of Cheektowaga.  The fire company’s volunteers answer over 550 fire and emergency medical services calls each year.  For more information, or to volunteer go to the Forks Fire Department website at:  www.forksfd.org.