Department of Public Safety officials said 116 volunteer fire departments across South Dakota have received $2.27 million in grant funding for personal protective equipment.
More than 250 volunteer fire departments were approved for funding from the new grant program and awards range from $720 to $40,500, depending on their needs, officials said.
Karl Moser, Leola Fire Chief, spoke on behalf of his department.
“We needed to upgrade our PPE to keep our firefighters safe. We just didn’t have the funds to do it,” Moser said. “I’d like to thank our elected officials and the governor for making this grant possible.”
Personal protective gear includes items like bunker gear, self-contained breathing units, and helmets.
Paul Merriman is the State Fire Marshal. His office administers the grant program together with the South Dakota Firefighters Association.
"Volunteer fire departments are essential in protecting communities and maintaining public safety through their prompt and committed response to emergencies," said Merriman. "They form a fundamental part of the state's firefighting and disaster management system."
The legislature approved $5 million in funding during the 2023 legislative session through HB1127.