NEW HAVEN, CT — On Wednesday, Oct. 28, the Regional Water Authority said it is distributing about $17,000 among emergency-service groups, ambulance companies and fire departments in its territory, including the New Haven Fire Department. The city department is set to receive $1,000 for a specialized cradle for marine rescue and recovery operations, Patch reported.
RWA Police Capt. Paul Ruggiero described the awards as a partnership effort. "Strong communities depend on strong partnerships," he said, adding that local fire crews, EMS providers and responders often work alongside the utility in the field.
Where the Grant Money Is Going
The RWA began its Emergency Responder Grant Program in 2024 to aid volunteer and professional first responders, Patch reported. The awards coincide with National First Responders Day and are intended to pay for equipment, training aids and other resources that strengthen readiness.
Patch reported that the 16 other recipients include the Prospect volunteer department, which will buy emergency pagers, and the Seymour department, which will use water supply adapters in areas without hydrants. Guilford will buy slow-close hydrant valves, while Milford will purchase vertical ventilation equipment for fires in multi-story buildings. East Haven is getting cold-water rescue suits, and West Haven a handheld sonar device for finding submerged victims. Hamden's fire department will use its grant for outreach materials tied to a new Community Risk Reduction initiative.