Rescue units in Armstrong, Butler and Indiana counties get more than $250K in grants

Buffalo Township’s volunteer fire department won’t need to rely as heavily on bingo proceeds to cover expenses, based on state grants announced last week.

The Office of the State Fire Commissioner awarded nearly $258,000 in grant money to 22 fire and rescue units in Armstrong, Butler and Indiana counties, including $13,987 to Buffalo, according to state Rep. Jeff Pyle, R-Ford City.

Buffalo fire Chief Matthew S. Cypher said the money will help the department more quickly pay off a loan used to buy $74,000 in rescue equipment two years ago, saving money on interest.

The equipment included tools commonly referred to as the “jaws of life,” because they can help emergency responders cut people out of mangled vehicles after crashes.

“The (new) pieces are 20% lighter, and that makes it easier for smaller firefighters to use,” Cypher said, adding the new equipment is more efficient, and that can mean the difference between life and death in a rescue operation where every second matters.

Buffalo also is using the grant money to help it expand fire truck bays, resurface floors and install a door at its station.

Among other local departments, Sarver ($13,822), North Apollo ($11,843), Kiski ($11,678), Gilpin ($11,513) and Freeport EMS ($7,155) are also getting grant money, according to Pyle.