July 13, 2017
NORTH HORNELL, NY – State Senator Tom O’Mara (R, Big Flats) and North Hornell Volunteer Fire Department Chief Michael Robbins announced that the department will purchase a new pumper tanker and water rescue equipment with the assistance of $215,000 in state funding O’Mara secured in the 2017-2018 New York State budget. The senator and the fire chief made the announcement at the North Hornell Fire Department, together with North Hornell firefighters, and North Hornell Mayor John Falci and village and town board members.
O’Mara secured the $215,000 state grant as part of this year’s State and Municipal Capital Facilities Program. The funding will help the department purchase a new 3,000-gallon pumper tanker and water rescue equipment that will enhance the department’s firefighting and rescue capabilities for its district and the surrounding area. The new truck will enhance the fire protection that the department provides in the non-hydrant areas of the fire district. It will also allow the department to maintain the capability of three pumpers, as well as maintain or even improve its current Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating.
The water rescue equipment will enhance the department’s response capabilities at the Kanakadea Park (Almond Dam) and the other streams, rivers and ponds within the fire district. New equipment purchases could include an inflatable rescue boat known as a Rapid Deployment Craft (RDC), updated personal flotation devices (PFDs), and water rescue ropes and throw devices.
O’Mara said, “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to assist the North Hornell Volunteer Fire Department purchase this new pumper tanker and additional rescue equipment that will better serve the village, enhance the personal safety of our firefighters, and ease the burden on local property taxpayers. Thank you to North Hornell’s firefighters, and their fellow first responders throughout the region, for their outstanding service to save lives and protect property.”
