Rib Mountain to Receive Grant From Rewarding First Responder Program

Thursday, August 31st, 2023 -- 11:01 AM

(Mike Leischner, WSAU) The Wisconsin Public Service Foundation is in the process of distributing 80 thousand dollars in equipment to first responders from Eagle River to Sheboygan as part of the Rewarding First Responders grant program.

According to Mike Leischner with WSAU, Spokesman Matt Cullen says their crews often work alongside first responders, so they know how important the right equipment is. "Our field personnel need to go in and safely disconnect the electric or natural gas service to keep that area safe while our first responders perform their duties.

"Or if, perhaps, we have a sever weather event that moves through and knocks down overhead power lines. And being able to give them the tools and the equipment and the training they need to keep everyone safe."

He says the department requesting the grant needs to show how the new equipment will benefit the community they serve. "Demonstrate how that equipment or that training will improve public safety. It has to be part of a well planned safety initiative."

Cullen says departments that receive grants in one year are ineligible the next so they can spread the impact out. "It allows us to be able to reach a number of different departments in north central and north eastern Wisconsin."

Cullen adds that this year's distribution from the foundation is a record amount. In the last ten years, the program has awarded more than a half million dollars worth of equipment to more than 200 departments.

The SAFER District in Rib Mountain was one of this year's winners- netting two gas detection meters worth about two thousand dollars.

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