During his second appearance in Levittown on Tuesday, Oct. 26, Governor George E. Pataki joined Senator Kemp Hannon in paying a special visit to the Levittown Fire Department.

The two elected officials were in attendance for the unveiling of an emergency vehicle equipped with protective gear in event of bioterrorism. This new equipment was procured by state grants secured by Hannon. This equipment, unlike any other on Long Island, distinguishes the Levittown Fire Department as a leader of public safety.

"Rescue workers in our local communities need to be prepared to answer all types of emergency calls," said Hannon. "I will continue efforts to provide Levittown volunteers and all of our hometown heroes with the resources they need to protect themselves and the public."

The new truck joining Levittown Fire Department fleet is a Ford F550 model with a special utility box to carry Level A suits to protect against hazardous materials, a propane burn-off kit and foam for gas or oil spill type of operations. Other features of the unique vehicle include a light tower and rear camera and command board.

Pataki discussed legislation that has been passed allowing local law enforcement to go after terrorism anywhere in the state. He mentioned how it is a team effort.

"We can pass the laws, but we need the people," Pataki said. "We need the responders, who, when that bell rings, and the siren goes off and the alarm comes to put on their uniforms and respond to the call. And I just can't thank you enough."

Pataki continued on to acknowledge the close proximity in which Levittown was to Ground Zero.

"We know that terrorism doesn't know any geographic boundaries," Pataki said. "We don't know where they are going to strike. Whether it's Ground Zero or Levittown, you have to be prepared, you have to have the equipment, and ultimately, you have to have our support."

Levittown Fire Chief Brian Holt said the emergency vehicle fills a void left in the post 9/11 era, allowing us to respond to chemical, biological and radiological emergencies with the equipment necessary right on it.

"Making purchase of the vehicle possible is just an example of Senator Hannon responding to the needs of the Levittown community," Holt said.