STRATFORD – The Town of Stratford has been awarded more than $600,000 in federal funds through FEMA’s FY24 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. This critical funding will allow the Town to fully upgrade and replace the Stratford Fire Department’s inventory of self-contained breathing apparatus.
The $632,521.81 grant also funds up to eight instructor-led training at the regional Fire School, ensuring Stratford’s firefighters are fully prepared to use the new equipment in live fire situations. Each firefighter on staff will receive a new face mask, and the Department will acquire multiple Rapid Intervention Team packs, emergency air supply systems that are available when rescue is needed by first responders or victims.
“This funding is an investment in the safety of both our firefighters and our community. Stratford’s first responders put themselves in harm’s way every day, and ensuring they have the best possible equipment is one of our top priorities,” said Mayor Laura R. Hoydick. “We are grateful to FEMA for recognizing the importance of this project and for supporting Stratford with this significant award.”
These upgrades will not only enhance firefighter safety but also allow the department to be compliant with the upcoming 2026 National Fire Protection Association standards and provides a warranty for the life of the air pack.
“The new SCBA equipment and training will directly improve our ability to respond quickly, safely, and effectively in emergencies,” Fire Chief Jermaine Atkinson said. “Having the latest life-saving tools ensures our firefighters are protected and prepared when called to serve.
The grant allows the fire departent to meet upcoming safety standards ahead of schedule and strengthens our ability to save lives in Stratford,” he added.
The town had proactively included funding for this equipment in its FY2026–2030 Capital Improvement and Capital Equipment Plan as part of a contingency strategy, ensuring the investment would move forward even without federal support. The award from FEMA offsets this cost and accelerates the Department’s ability to acquire and deploy the upgraded equipment.
“On behalf of the Town of Stratford, we are deeply appreciative of FEMA’s continued partnership in helping us safeguard our community,” Hoydick said.
