Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy (NY-4) today announced the Mineola Fire Department received a $136,433 grant for fire operations and firefighter safety from the US Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

"The Mineola Fire Department not only protects its own community, but often responds to calls throughout Nassau County," McCarthy said. "This grant will allow Mineola's firefighters to serve Long Island more safely and efficiently, and enable them to communicate with other emergency responders in the event of a large-scale emergency."

With this grant, the department will purchase new radio equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus, and new fire-resistant coats, pants, helmets, and boots. Much of the department's current equipment is outdated and fails to meet National Fire Protection Association standards.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program awards one-year grants directly to local fire departments, enhancing their abilities to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities.