DRYDEN, N.Y. (WHCU) – Federal support will help the Town of Dryden Fire Department retain and recruit firefighters and staff.

The department was recently notified that they’re the recipient of a FEMA SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant worth $397,710 over four years. Dryden Fire worked with departments in Etna, Freeville, and Varna during the grant application process. Dryden Fire Coordinator Chris O’Connor tells WHCU how they’ll spend some of the money.

 

O’Connor adds some of the funding will be used to cover the cost of physicals and to pay back firefighters for mileage accrued while attending mandatory trainings. The influx of funding available will be integral to the success of the department in the Town of Dryden. Officials say 911 calls for fire and EMS have doubled in the last decade, while the number of active volunteer firefighters and EMTs has dropped by approximately 50%.

The grant money will also help Dryden residents avoid tax increases to pay for necessary equipment and programs.