The Town of Canton Fire and EMS Department announced on May 22 that it has received grant funding from the Canton Community Health Fund to support a number of initiatives targeted at enhancing firefighter safety and emergency response capabilities.

The money will be used to buy a Pack Tracker system for the department's new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), according to officials. By tracking firefighter status, emergency distress signals, and air management data, the technology enables incident controllers to keep an eye on firefighters working in dangerous conditions.

Additionally, a specialist ventilation saw with a bullet chain for roof ventilation operations during building fires was purchased thanks to the grant. To improve river rescue operations along the Farmington River, the agency will also purchase new water rescue rope equipment.

Department leaders expressed gratitude to the Canton Community Health Fund for its ongoing support, pointing out that the investment will improve firefighter safety, emergency preparedness, and community service.