WAYNESBORO – On August 5, 2020, the Borough of Waynesboro Fire Department received notice of award for federal funding in the amount of $45,454.55 from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.
The grant will be used to pay for the installation of a Source Capture Exhaust System at the Fire Department’s Potomac Street Station.
“The FEMA AFG program is very competitive and we’re grateful to Senator Pat Toomey and Congressman John Joyce for their support of the project and recognizing the importance and need for the installation of source capture exhaust systems at local fire stations,” stated Shawn Adolini, Borough Fire Department Chief.
The Source Capture Exhaust System to be installed at the Department’s Potomac Street Station, constructed in 1967, is a hose-based product that removes harmful diesel fumes from the station. The systems have been deemed a high priority by the AFG Program, as numerous studies have reported a link between frequent
diesel exhaust exposure and increased risks of cancer and other health complications. Several agencies have identified the carcinogenic effects of diesel exhaust exposure over time, such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Borough Manager Jason Stains commented, “Local fire departments continually struggle with funding, necessitating grants for capital improvements projects such as the proposed installation of a source capture exhaust system at the Potomac Street Station. The Fire Department has experienced a surge in call frequency, which places further strain on its budget. With the addition of a source capture exhaust system, the Potomac Street Fire Station will be better equipped to mitigate harmful diesel exhaust emissions and improve the health and safety of our first responders.” Council President Harold Mumma understands the importance of guarding those who serve on the front lines protecting the life and property of the Waynesboro community. “We’re grateful that FEMA approved the Fire Department’s request and that the equipment will be installed quickly to minimize any additional exposure to
our first responders.”
The total cost of the equipment and installation is expected to be approximately $50,000. The Fire Department’s share is $4,545.45.
Any questions related to this project may be addressed to Jason Stains, Borough Manager, at 717.762.2101
or Jason@waynesboropa.org.
