The Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department has submitted a grant proposal to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for a new pumper as part of the fiscal year 2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. If awarded, this grant will be used to purchase a new pumper to replace our aging front line pumper, a 1989 FMC. The total budget for the grant proposal is in the amount of $390,000.
The current engine has reached twenty (20) years of age. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends pumpers be utilized as a front line unit for fifteen (15) years and retired at twenty (20) years. Previous grant proposals for a replacement pumper have not been funded.
The new pumper would be designed to meet the latest safety standards established by the NFPA.