Chief Duelks declared that the FY 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program has granted $45,818 to the Westfield Fire Department. The money will be utilized to enhance department employees' health and safety by purchasing more personal protective equipment (PPE).

In order to improve responder safety and bolster capacities to safeguard the public from fire and fire-related threats, the AFG program offers direct funds to state fire training academies, emergency medical care organizations, and fire departments. Since its launch in 2001, the program has given out almost $8.7 billion across the country for vehicles, training, protective gear, vital equipment, and related resources.

Captain Ryan Dullea and Deputy Chief Robert Sawicki received particular praise from the department for spearheading the grant application process and winning the prize.